For this post, I’ll focus on the origination of some American auto brands. Their names are often linked to their inventor or developer. Henry Ford may be the … [Read more...]
Antique or Classic? What makes the difference?
The word antique, from the Latin antiquus meaning old or ancient, describes collectible items usually at least 100 years old. They are desirable because of age, … [Read more...]
There are fascinating origins behind most nursery rhymes.
I love discovering the history and origins behind most common nursery rhymes that bring added details on the life and times of real people and events. Children may … [Read more...]
Funny Things Happen on our way to Written English – “Though the written word may stay you, the spoken word can slay you.”
If the above words aren’t already a famous quotation, they should be, since correct word pronunciation often trips us up. I remember being a dreamy sixth grader who … [Read more...]
Southern Exposure
Today I finish three months of great Southern living 860 miles south of Minnesota where when temperatures dropped to -26 northern Mississippi dipped to 23 above but … [Read more...]
It’s Almost Valentine’s Day – Finding A Perfect Life Mate, Part 2
For Part 2 of finding a perfect life mate, I’ll introduce you to my Uncle Johnny. As a kid, I found him fascinating. He collected all kinds and shapes of polished … [Read more...]
It’s Almost Valentine’s Day – Finding A Perfect Life Mate, Part 1
With Valentine’s Day soon here, it’s time for practical advice on love and romance. In our day when TV reality shows like The Bachelor earn top ratings, and library … [Read more...]
Garde lieu—or vocabulary building can be dangerous.
The most fun college class I’ve created and taught so far was when students including my oldest son asked me to put together a college vocabulary class so their … [Read more...]
Merry Christmas leads to Easter
That first Christmas at His wondrous birth in Bethlehem angels sang, “Peace on earth, good will to men.” More than ever this year I see that His birth and Galilee … [Read more...]
Please tell me where that name came from again (Part 2)
I love the historic origins behind many dining, fashion, and cultural statements. Crowned Holy Roman Emperor in 800 AD, Charlemagne, King of France, established a … [Read more...]
