by B.L. Unkel | Dec 25, 2021 | Holidays
The first recorded mention of “Christmas” is in 1038. The word came from “Cristes Maesse,” meaning “mass of Christ.” The Bible doesn’t tell us Christ’s birthdate, but a Pope back in the mid-fourth century designated December 25 as the day to celebrate His birth....
by B.L. Unkel | Nov 27, 2021 | Writing
Creating fictional stories often requires lots of research. Most writers love to research. Researching is fun. Writing is hard work. Research allows you to meet remarkable people, go to fascinating places, and have exciting experiences. One of my favorite research...
by B.L. Unkel | Nov 24, 2021 | Holidays
Did you know 10-12% of Americans think their ancestors arrived in 1620 on the Mayflower? Count me in that group . . . sort of. I grew up hearing about how my family arrived on the “first ship.” As a child, I thought that meant the Mayflower. It wasn’t until I was a...
by B.L. Unkel | Nov 20, 2021 | Writing
Almost every type of genre (mystery, romance, horror, etc.) has words or phrases that are particular to that specific genre. Authors of police procedurals use police jargon. Science Fiction novels are often set in a world created in the author’s imagination with...
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.”...
