![\"besoms-1-500\"](\"https:\/\/paganpages.org\/emagazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/09\/besoms-1-500.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nBesom<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n You will need:<\/em><\/strong> 4ft dowel- 1″ in diameter or a tree branch of the same approximate size, ball of twine, scissors, straw, thin willow twigs, broom corn or pliable herb stock.<\/p>\n Take the straw or other herb stalk that you have chosen and soak overnight in luke warm salted water. The water swells the stalk slightly for bending without breakage, and the salt dispels former energies. When ready, remove stalks from the water and dry for just a bit. Not too much or the stalk will stiffen up, again.<\/p>\n Place the dowel on a table where you have room to work. Start lining the stalks along the dowel , about 3 inches from the bottom, moving backwards. Begin binding the stalks to the dowel with the twine. Tie very securely.<\/p>\n You may add as many layers as you like, depending on how full you want the Besom to be. When stalks are secure, gently bend the top stalks down over the binding. When all have been bent over, secure the stalks again with more twine a couple of inches under the first binding.<\/p>\n Allow to air dry for a day or two. The dowel can then be stained, painted, or carved into to make personal. Remember to concentrate and charge at the next full moon.<\/p>\n Pendulum<\/strong><\/p>\n Items needed:<\/p>\n Instructions:<\/p>\n To use the Pendulum, hold the pendant in your hand loosely, elbow on the table, letting the pendulum swing free. Still the movements of the pendulum with your other hand. Ask the pendulum to show you “yes” – the pendulum should start to move in a\u00a0pattern, usually in a circle or back or forth. If you can’t really tell, ask the pendulum to be more precise. Once a pattern is established, this is the Pendulum’s “yes.” Now, ask the pendulum to show you “no.” Keep your pendulum in a safe place, and it will treat you well!<\/p>\n Here are some activities to try out with your family:<\/strong><\/p>\n Together as a family, create an altar honoring your family’s beloved Make candleholders out of apples, turnips, gourds and small pumpkins Eat dinner by candlelight, setting a place at the table for your Plant flower bulbs in your yard or somewhere special. Think of this Take a walk and observe animals (like squirrels and geese) prepare Try making skull-shaped popcorn balls.<\/p>\n Why should kids have all the fun? The whole family should make Enjoy your Blessed Samhain<\/p>\n Blessed Home and Hearth<\/p>\n The Hearthkeeper<\/p>\n\n
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\ndead(including pets). Use photos, mementos, keepsakes or anything that
\nseems right.<\/p>\n
\nby hollowing out deep holes in the tops. Make sure the candles are
\nwell-secured in the bases.<\/p>\n
\nbeloved dead. If your children are older, try having a Silent Supper where
\nthe meal is eaten in silence so the spirits are not frightened away.<\/p>\n
\nas a promise for spring, a secret the earth will keep for you in the cold. Infuse it with all your thoughts of spring and warmth.<\/p>\n
\nfor winter. At home, prepare for winter in your own way.<\/p>\n
\ncostumes and go trick-or-treating!<\/p>\n