by B.L. Unkel | Oct 23, 2021 | Baking
As we approach Halloween, I thought I’d share historical myths and superstitions involving blackberries. There are more than you might imagine. Blackberries and the Devil The most well-known superstition is: Don’t eat fresh blackberries after “Michaelmas day.”...
by B.L. Unkel | Sep 18, 2021 | Writing
September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month. (Who knew?) I assume September was chosen because it’s close to the start of the school year and that means books—academic, as well as pleasure. September also has national book-related days. September 6 was read a...
by B.L. Unkel | Aug 28, 2021 | Travel
How many of you have heard Disney’s song, It’s a Small World (After All)? Unless you’ve been living under a rock since the early 1960s, you’ve probably heard it at least once in your life. (In fact, after just reading the song title, I’ll bet many of you are humming...
by B.L. Unkel | Aug 14, 2021 | History
In these dog days of summer, we’re always on the hunt for ways to stay cool. However, before we look at the most obvious methods of doing that, let’s step back in time. Did you know the phrase “dog days” doesn’t refer to your dog lazing around because it’s hot? The...
by B.L. Unkel | Aug 7, 2021 | Travel
A few summers ago, I experienced a redefining of my perception of three historic seafaring vessels. I’d heard the stories about these ships but had no real clue as to their true size . . . until I saw them in person. How Small is “Small?” On the...
