My family and I have always been interested in learning new things. New cultures, history, earth science, computer science (not me on that one), and marketing trends—well you get my meaning. Sometimes I’m sure I’m that geek who hangs out in a bar with her friends talking about inane things and spewing trivia. Kind of like Cliff in Cheers. And sometimes I’m the geek who wants more explanation of a concept, or wants to read details about 16th century politics and legends.

I should probably just watch Jeopardy like my aunt Sandy who is smart as a whip. And I do watch it sometimes, it’s a great show, but right now I’m catching up on summer reruns and avoiding the three foot jungle growing in my backyard.

So I’m going to throw out a challenge. Hardly anyone comments on this blog and maybe that says something about the content. I’m going to pretend it’s your fault so my ego doesn’t get crushed. I would like to challenge you to reply to this post and give me a good, “Did you know?” Tell me something random, something weird, something interesting—or not—anything. Give me a good conversation starter for those awkward moments when I need to impress someone with my wide breadth of knowledge.

No cheating now. You can look something up but no Balderdash type stuff.

Here’s some stuff to start you off with.

Did you know…?

  • That my dog is color-blind and that I dream in color?
  • That the Star-Spangled Banner was written by a lawyer and inspired by the sight of the American flag still flying after a massive barrage on Fort McHenry?
  • That it’s impossible to go into a Costco and not come out with $100 worth of stuff that wasn’t on your list?
  • That in the 18th century, the French used to wear makeup on their faces (which contained lead and burned holes through their skin) to look as though they did not labor in the sun and were therefore part of the upper class? And today a tan symbolizes a life of leisure. Hmmm.
  • The Afghan war is now the longest war in U.S. history?
  • That Grendel the dog barks, on average, 12 times per year?

 Well, did you?

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