>> Mica, here in E Tennessee traditionally was used to reflect back ill will. <<

Yes, like painting your porch roof haint blue.

>> This is the 2nd time in two days I've heard mica mentioned. I think I might be getting a "hint" that I should get some;>! <<

Agreed.

>> Cheers,
Pat(who's enjoying today's weather enough to put out a tray of Mt Mint to harden off) <<

It's cloudy and windy here. However, I have several types of native mint seeds snoozing in flats on the picnic tables outside. That way they can sprout whenever they feel like it's time, but they are protected from weeds and other ground-based hazards. When I walk past the pots, I can hear the seeds going "zzzzz" like tiny botanical snores. :D