Welcome to YourWeb.Info
Shopping Mall!

When Halloween comes around, images of black cats and witches stir the curiosity of well-known superstitions. These tales have survived the centuries to become a part of our culture. But where did they come from?

Black Cats

• Folklore: If a black cat crosses your path, you're in for bad luck.



• Origin: In the Middle Ages, some considered black cats to be the companions of witches; the cats were even said to change into witches after seven years of service. Therefore, a cat crossing one's path might be a witch in disguise who was up to no good.

Spilling Salt

• Folklore: If you spill salt, throw a pinch over your left shoulder.



• Origin: Eighteenth-century Scots believed that brownies, creatures similar to leprechauns, lived in the kitchen and cam out at night to make mischief. When salt-a very precious item at the time-was spilled, on to to throw it over his should to bribe the brownies and keep them from causing trouble. Why the left shoulder? The Latin root sinist (as in sinister) means 'left'. Therefore, the left side was thought to be evil or sinister, and where evil spirits or brownies would linger.

Knock On Wood

• Folklore: After boasting, making a prediction or speaking of good fortune, knock on wood.



• Origin: This stems from a combination of ancient Celtic and pagan folklore. People thought that trees were the homes of gods; when asking for a favor, one would touch the bark. After the favor was granted, the tree was knocked again as a sign of thanks.

Breaking A Mirror

• Folklore: If you break a mirror, you'll suffer from seven years of bad luck.



• Origin: The glass mirror was considered a magical invention when it was introduced in Europe in the Middle Ages. People came to believe that their reflection was really their soul. Therefore, the breaking of a mirror inevitably meant harm to the soul. Why seven years of misfortune? The ancient Romans, who had highly polished metal for mirrors, believed that life renewed itself every seven years. Since a mirror meant broken health, it was thought that one would need seven years to recover.

TIPS FOR YOUR HALLOWEEN PARTY

Use colorful autumn leaves, vine leaves work especially well. to line trays for appetizers and cheeses.

Accent floral arrangements with touches of the season, such as dried leaves and berries. Be sure to keep flowers and centerpieces low enough so that guests can easily see each other.

For a buffet, roll flatware in large cloth napkins, tie with a decorative cord, and stack in a big basket for easy grabbing.

Hollow out pumpkins and gourds to hold flowers, dips and salads.

Don't use scented candles, they'll detract from the flavor of the food.

Be sure to ask invited guests about any dietary restrictions.

Don't ask people to BYOB (bring your own booze), unless you still live with college roommates.

Expect the unexpected; have extra food and place setting ready, in case someone brings a surprise guest.