One of the most unexpected things about my writing journey is the surprising number of very random things I’ve learned about for the benefit of my stories.

I admire writers who clearly dove deep into a particular subject matter to become mini-content experts in order to write knowledgeably about a topic. For some, this likely required a great depth of research to learn the ins and outs of something central to their story. With the exception of learning about the Amish, which I’d say I studied with significant rigor,  I would say that I’ve learned a little about a lot of things along the way.

These include:

• Goats – breeds, basic care and animal husbandry, the benefits of goat’s milk, how to make goat cheese, how much milk goats produce etc.
• Anaphylactic reactions and treatment
• Ski Patrol training, certification, and governing bodies
• Hazelnuts
• Concussions
• Master’s of Business Administration graduate programs
• Dairy Farming – the dairy production according to state, mega dairy farms: size, upkeep, and sanitation conditions, dairy cow breeds: difference between Jersey and Holstein, The Tillamook Dairy owner co-op model – one of my few on-location learning opportunities!
• Columbians
• Rotator cuff injuries, surgery, and recovery
• Electricity- AC/DC power conversion, solar power systems, wind power systems
• State laws regulating transportation and handling of the deceased
• All about Tillamook County Oregon – more on-location learning!
• Lacrosse – position names, general rules and game play, collegiate lacrosse rules and routines, Major Lacrosse League: teams, seasons, rosters, National Lacrosse League: teams, seasons, rosters, players salaries, travel policies and team recruiting

Let’s put it this way – maybe, someday all this random information just might improve my Trivial Pursuit skills – I doubt it, but maybe.