A single magpie is considered a sign of bad luck. A Guide to the Scientific Knowledge of Things Familiar recites an old proverb concerning the incidence of bad weather when magpies forage alone and a possible scientific explanation for this.
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Many believe that if all of the candles on a birthday cake are blown out with one breath, while making a silent wish, the wish will come true.
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Before traveling a person should, apparently, sit on their luggage. (Russian)
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According to an age old custom, carrying a dead shrew in your pocket wards off rheumatism!
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Collect seven or nine different flowers on midsummer eve and place them under your pillow and it is said that you will dream of your future spouse. (Sweden)
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If you catch a falling leaf on the first day of autumn you will not catch a cold all winter.
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Amber beads, worn as a necklace, can protect against illness or cure colds.
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In some parts of England, rum is used to wash a baby's head for good luck.
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