The acorn is the fruit of the oak tree, a tree that was sacred to the ancient Druids.

Like the egg, the acorn symbolizes both sexual fertility and material prosperity.

The shape of the acorn, the body coming out from under the cap, represents birth or coming out of the mother's womb.

The acorn also represents masculine virility and a connected pair (two) of acorns represent the testicles.

In superstition it is believed that placing an acorn on every windowsill will protect the house from lightning. Also, to carry an acorn in your pocket or purse will prevent aging.

Every year, my children and I gather fresh acorns for decoration and for our windowsills. When gathering, check for holes and cracks in the shell of the acorn. Discard any acorn that shows signs of damage or worms.

Don't fret if the caps fall off the nut. Simply glue the caps back in place when you return home.