When we think of runes, we often imagine glowing symbols in a fantasy epic. But to the Norse, runes didn’t need to glow to be powerful. They were whispers—from the Proto-Germanic rūnō—carved into the bones of the world. For a Viking, a rune wasn’t just a letter. It was a bridge between the mundane and the cosmic. 1. More Than an Alphabet: The Geometry of Power Used from roughly 150–800 CE, the Elder Futhark is the most famous of the runic systems. Unlike flowing calligraphy, these symbols were built from sharp angles and straight lines. Why? Because they were designed for resistance. Runes were carved into wood, bone, and stone…
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Kilts in Plaka: A Victory Lap in Athens
How a November birthday trip became an unexpected Scottish festival, a culinary adventure, and a slow-travel win for our ADHD seven-year-old There are many ways to celebrate turning another year older. You could have a quiet dinner, pop some champagne, or, if you’re me, sitting on a gorgeous rooftop terrace in Athens, while a waiter accidentally dumps a full glass of sticky juice directly over your head. The view of the beautifully lit Parthenon was spectacular. The ambient November air was perfect. The apology from the staff? Non-existent. They didn’t even offer a discount on the bill! So, yes, I spent my birthday dinner with juice dripping down my neck,…
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Move Over, Pompeii: Why Herculaneum Stole My History-Loving Heart
Venturing into Herculaneum was a first for me, and I was utterly captivated from the moment we stepped through its ancient gates. For years, my imagination had been primarily captured by Pompeii. I’d seen countless documentaries, read books, and envisioned the sprawling city frozen in ash and visited three times over the last twenty years. So, I arrived in Herculaneum with certain expectations, mostly taken from its more famous, larger sibling. What I found, however, was a personal surprise. Herculaneum is undeniably smaller and much quieter than Pompeii. There are fewer crowds, less tour groups, and a more hushed atmosphere that immediately sets it apart. But it was precisely this…
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Treasure Hunters in Time: Making Pompeii Exciting for a Child with ADHD
Navigating a historical site with a young child can be an adventure in itself, but when you add the vibrant energy of a six-year-old with ADHD, “sightseeing” takes on a whole new meaning. My family recently visited Pompeii, and what could have been an overwhelming experience became one of our most memorable family trips, all thanks to a little creative planning. I’ve been to Pompeii twice before—once alone, then again with my mum—and this time was completely different. We chose a specific entrance at the amphitheater, near where we knew we would park, which saved a lot of hassle and tired feet. Right away, we found a fascinating temporary exhibit…
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An Italian Summer and a Perfect Hugo Spritz
After a very long, cold wet spring, it is finally summer here in Italy. Summer conjures images of sun-drenched days, the scent of the sea carried on a warm breeze, and the promise of pure, unadulterated bliss. Whether your dream vacation involves the vibrant energy of a coastal town or the serene charm of a medieval hilltop village, Italy in summer is an experience for the senses. Imagine the feel of soft, sun-warmed sand between your toes as you stroll along a sparkling shoreline. The gentle lapping of waves provides the perfect soundtrack to a lazy afternoon spent under a colourful umbrella, with the enticing aroma of fried seafood drifting…
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Ovid’s Beauty Secrets: A Timeless Guide or … Not.
As part of my research for the sequel to Even Gods Are Blind, I have been focusing on how Claudia can fit into her new role and look the part… no spoilers! I am already quite familiar with the fashions of that period but I wanted to read more about how rich women cared for themselves. I picked up my copy of The Love Poems by Ovid as he has a amusing section for just that thing. Ovid, a renowned Roman poet, penned the poem “Medicamina Faciei Femineae” (Cosmetics for Women) as part of his larger work, “Ars Amatoria” (The Art of Love). In this poem, Ovid offers advice to…
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A Summer of Inspiration: Unveiling My New Pirate Adventure
Dear Readers, It is September already! Summer is almost over and with my daughter heading back to school in a few days I am going to miss spending everyday with her. On the positive side, I should have more time to focus on writing. I have the sequel to Even Gods Are Blind in progress but lately the main character from another work in progress has been clamouring for attention and demanding I continue her tale. So over the last few months, as we trailed our vintage caravan back and forth across Italy, I have been gathering inspiration for my upcoming magical pirate adventure. From the ancient ruins of Rome…
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Beyond the Tombs: Unveiling the Vibrant World of the Etruscans
Imagine stepping out of the blinding Italian sun and into a dimly lit tomb. Cut directly into the rock, the air is instantly cool and holds the faint, metallic scent of ancient earth. But look closer at the walls: they are alive. Vivid frescoes burst with color, depicting muscular athletes in mid-leap, musicians playing double-flutes, and guests reclining at lavish banquets, all guarded by fantastical, coiled sea monsters. This isn’t a somber monument to the dead; it’s a defiant, roaring celebration of life. Welcome to the captivating world of the Etruscans. Long before Rome grew into an empire, thriving between the 8th and 3rd centuries BCE, this advanced civilization held…
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My First Review and It’s 5 Stars!
Must read 🏆 A Tale of Temptation, Passion, and Forbidden Love Unfolding in the Moonlit Shadows SYNOPSIS Claudia’s life crumbles when rebellious gods snatch her and deposit her in a twisted Roman Empire. Branded their unwilling champion, Claudia must stop the mad emperor, Tarquinius, from destroying humanity and the gods themselves.Tarquinius sold his soul and made a deal with Pluto to bring his wife back to life. He will stop at nothing to make this happen, regardless of the consequences. Claudia navigates this treacherous world with her 21st-century smarts and the help of newfound friends. Will she fulfill her heroic task and return home, or will the truth of her…
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A Timeless Tale: A Review of The Forgotten City on Xbox
The Forgotten City wasn’t on my radar. But sometimes, the most captivating experiences sneak up on you, I found it by a lucky chance. If you know anything about me, its probably that I love ancient Rome. This is a game that deserves to be discovered, a gem nestled amongst the larger releases. Having spent hours exploring its streets, here’s why I recommend The Forgotten City for Xbox gamers. A Breathtaking Journey Through Time The Forgotten City throws you headfirst into a stunning recreation of an ancient Roman city, so this was right up my alley. The architecture is meticulously detailed, transporting you to a bygone era. Exploring this meticulously…
