October brings the third of the harvest moons. At this time of year in agricultural communities of old, this was the time when they would cull the herds of animals that were too old, too young or too sick to make it through the winter. For this reason it became known as the blood harvest. The meat from these animals would be used for meals and some would be salted or preserved in whatever way possible to make it last.

As the last of the harvest moons, this is the time to finish preparing for winter not only by stocking up and de-cluttering your area, but also for letting go of the past and inner cleansing. Letting go of old habits and thought processes can be a difficult process. We may even mourn for the things we are leaving behind. But we do this knowing that we prepare ourselves for the coming “new year�?that we celebrate at Samhain. Other names for this moon include the Moon of the Changing Seasons and the Falling Leaf Moon

Celebrate by sharing in the final harvest foods. Prepare rich roasts and stews or bake squashes and pumpkins. Apples are also in season and the sweet fruits can be made into wonderful pies and cobblers to share with your loved ones. If you want to share in the tradition of preserving food for the winter, try making some applesauce or apple butters. A great idea for this moon’s cakes and ale would be apple cinnamon bread and spiced cider!

Spiced cider is easy to make and smells wonderful. Here is a simple recipe:

• 1 container of apple cider
• 1-2 slices of lemon or orange
• 2-3 cinnamon sticks
• 10 - 15 cloves
• 5-6 cardamom pods
• Cheesecloth
  
  Pour the cider into a large saucepan or crock pot. Tie all of the seasonings and lemon slices into the cheesecloth and put the bundle into the pan. Heat on a low setting until the cider is warmed through and the seasonings have had a chance to permeate the cider, at least 30 minutes or until it is spiced to taste. Do not let it boil. Enjoy!
  
  Altar decorations to honor this moon could be fall leaves, and fall flowers like mums in colors of gold, orange and deep reds. Herbs for this time of year include sage, thyme and roots like burdock. Earthy stones such as black tourmaline can also assist in the process of transforming and inner cleansing.
  
  This energy will continue throughout the month as we approach Samhain. Take the time to really reflect on what you need to let go of in your life. Many Blessings to you all!