My 22 Cents’ Worth: Dreamland: Where the Action Is

Do you like adventurous experiences, maybe with a dose of shock that startles your tranquility? If so, there is no need to visit an amusement park.

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Older But Not Wiser: The Nose Gets Lucky

The day started off great. I was taking my 3-year-old granddaughter, Summer, for a walk around the neighborhood. We were having a contest—who could spot the most birds. OK, I may have cheated a little and counted one bird twice, but she’s 3 years old has to learn the ways of the world.

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The History of Ordinary Things: The Umbrella’s Got You Covered

An umbrella, as well as a parasol, is a folding canopy supported by wooden or metal ribs that is usually mounted on a wooden, metal, or plastic pole. They fold and close along the pole and are opened when needed.

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How Much Do You Know about July Fourth?

In 1776, the Founding Fathers of the Second Continental Congress declared that we were no longer subject (and subordinate) to the monarch of Britain, King George III, and that we were now 13 united, free, and independent colonies.

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’70s Flashback: The Night Disco Didn’t Die

Sometimes a promotional stunt can work too well.

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The History of Ordinary Things: The Colorful History of Crayons

A crayon is a stick of pigmented wax used for writing or drawing. Wax crayons differ from pastels, which use a dry binder, such as Arabic gum powder, mixed with the pigment. In oil pastels, the binder is a mixture of wax and oil.

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Conversation Starters for Mother’s Day

If you’re trying to make conversation at Mother’s Day dinner this year, try sprinkling some of these facts into the discussion:

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The History of Ordinary Things: Don’t Ignore the Rocking Chair

The words “rocking chair” appeared in the Oxford English Dictionary in 1787. Benjamin Franklin was credited with the invention in 1710, but probably early American cabinetmakers or farmers are responsible.

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’70s Flashback: A Rock-Solid Idea

Late in 1975, there would have been no reason for you to know the name of Gary Dahl.

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