Samhain Newsletter

October 11,  2008

Merry meet and welcome to our Halloween newsletter!  If you've visited our website of late, you've noticed that we've been adding new items continuously this month and last, to gear up for the upcoming holiday season.  What could be more appropriate for this time of year than a brand new cauldron to cook up your favorite witches brew!  We've added a whole bunch of new cast iron cauldrons in all different sizes.  We're sure that you'll be able to find one that will be just perfect for that Samhain ritual or spell that you're in the process conjuring up!  Visit our "Incense Burners and Cauldrons" section to see what's cookin'!

Also just in are our beautiful new goddess statues, perfect for representing the Goddess on your altar or as a lovely figurine anywhere in your home. You can view these in the "Ritual Items" section of our website.

       
Little Known Pumpkin Facts!

When we think of Halloween, we naturally think of pumpkins. But, how much do we really know about those lovely round gourds?  Here are just a few fun facts about pumpkins! 
Pumpkins are actually a fruit, not a vegetable and are classified as being in the same family as gourds, squash and cucumbers.  They are highly nutritious as they are chock full of vitamin A and B, iron, protein, potassium, zinc and more!  They are low in calories and fat, and high in fiber.  Eating pumpkin seeds has been shown to reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men. 
When selecting your pumpkin for carving or just as a decoration, make sure that it has an inch or two of stem left on top.  Pumpkins with a stem will last longer and rot slower than those without.  A good pumpkin will feel solid and heavy.  Pick one without soft spots or bruises. 
Researchers believe that pumpkins originated in Central America.  Seeds from related plants have been found in Mexico dating back over 7,000 years ago.  They are now grown on every continent in the world, other than Antarctica where it is just too cold.  Native American Indians introduced white settlers to the pumpkin which soon became a staple in their diets.  The pilgrims made pumpkin pie by hollowing out the shell and filling it with milk, honey and spices, then baking it. 
What about the Jack O'Lantern?  People have been making Jack O'Lanterns for centuries.  The tradition comes to us from across the pond as an Irish myth about a man named "Stingy Jack".  The story goes that Stingy Jack, an unsavory character, played a trick on the Devil.  When he died, he was too bad to let into heaven and due to his relationship with the Devil, was not allowed in hell either.  He was sent off into the dark night with only a burning coal to light his way.  Jack placed the coal in a hollowed out turnip and has been doomed to wander the earth alone ever since.  The Irish called this ghostly figure "Jack of the lantern" and then simply Jack O'Lantern.  Here's hoping that you and yours don't run into Stingy Jack this Halloween!

Wishing you and your family a safe and Happy Halloween!

Just In! New Yule Ornaments!

Quantities Limited

Also Just In! New Pewter Wiccan Expression Bracelets!

"Sam Hain" Poem
Author Unknown

Who is this guy they call Sam Hain? I see his name in witchy books.
But when I ask my witchy friends, they just give me the strangest looks.

He seems to be quite important and everyone knows him but me.
Each year they throw him a party, it sounds like the coolest place to be!

When I ask my friends what he’s like, they all but turn and run.
I need to get to know Sam Hain, so I can join in all of the fun!

I’ve asked my friends to introduce me. I’ll just have to introduce myself.
Because when I ask they just look at me as if I’m some crazy elf!

So I searched the yellow pages. I called up information too.
Just can’t seem to find this guy Sam Hain. I surfed the web ‘til I turned blue!

I’ve heard my witchy friends planning and although they’ll think I’m a pain,
I’m going to crash their party so I can finally meet Sam Hain!
 

Crafts of the Season - Samhain

What You'll Need

• Leaves and foliage


• Glass votive holder or jar


• White tissue paper


• White craft glue


• Water


• Paintbrush


• Tea light candles

Collect small leaves and other foliage from outside. Be sure there’s still some life in the leaves – they shouldn’t be too dry or crumbly. (Note: Leaves on bushes work well as their leaves are smaller.) Once selected, lay leaves in a single layer and place a large book on top to flatten them. Leave for an hour or two.  Spread a layer of white craft glue on the outside of the votive holder. Stick the leaves to the glue and press into place. Let dry.  Mix equal parts of water and white craft glue to create a decoupage paste.  Tear tissue paper into squares about one to two inches in size.  Use a paintbrush to glue the tissue paper over the leaves using the decoupage mixture. Overlap the tissue paper and make sure all of the glass is covered. Carry over the lip of the votive holder as well and be sure that the tissue paper is securely pasted against the inside of the glass.  Allow the jars to dry overnight.  Place a tea light candle inside each votive holder.  Enjoy nature!

Contact Us!

Web site: http://www.ladyhawkstreasures.com

Email: ladyhawk@ladyhawkstreasures.com

Toll-Free Telephone & Fax: 1-800-393-0368

Copyright © Ladyhawk's Treasures Inc 2008