FLOATING NEEDLES
Grease needles and let them float in a bowl of water, upon which tissue paper is laid. Each child has his, or her, own needle. It is amusing to watch the action of the needle when the paper sinks—as it does when it becomes saturated—the needles rush about.
CANDLE AND LOOKING-GLASS
Each person in turn walks downstairs backwards, alone in the dark, with a looking-glass in one hand and a lighted candle in the other. The future husband or wife will be seen—? Or, run around the house three times with your mouth full of water—at midnight.
Melted lead poured into water results in queer figures which sometimes resemble initials; these are supposed to be those of the future husband or wife.
The water charm: put three dishes on a table—one empty, one containing clean water, one soapy water; the blindfolded ones put a finger into one of the dishes, the position of which are changed after the blindfolding. If he puts his finger in clear water a happy marriage will result.
APPLE GAMES
Put a basket on the wall halfway up. The players stand at a distance and throw apples into the basket. A score is kept, the one putting the greatest number of apples into the basket receiving the prize.
THANKSGIVING PARTY
This may be held in a barn. The stalls may be draped with bright-colored goods and decorated with greens, or autumn leaves. Japanese lanterns are strung about. Chrysanthemums should be the table flowers. Old-time dances are danced, such as the Virginia Reel, Money Musk, etc. Pumpkin pies, grapes, nuts and cider are served as a part of the collation.