It all began when the Aztec Indians and Mayans used chicle, the coagulated milky latex from the sapodilla tree, for chewing gum. Sapodilla, a tropical American fruit tree, is indigenous to the Yucatan and regions of South America. Chicle is harvested by making cuts in the tree, and allowing the chicle to flow into a […]
Possibly the most distinct breed of dog, the pug is easily recognized by its seemingly squished muzzle and curly tail. While the pug has become a beloved companion in households around the world, this playful breed was first bred in ancient China. Buddhist monks of the fifth century were known to keep pugs as pets. […]
The cocoa tree is native to the Amazon Basin and was domesticated in Mexico. Cocoa trees grow exclusively in hot, rainy climates. The cocoa tree produces seeds that when crushed and fermented, cocoa solids and cocoa butter can be extracted. Chocolate was originally produced by mixing the cocoa powder (ground seeds) with the cocoa butter […]
Turtles are much beloved by so many around the world. Sea turtles have been living on planet earth for approximately 110 million years since the days of the dinosaurs, and nearly became extinct because of poachers stealing their eggs, and eating the meat of these beautiful mariners of the sea. Three of the seven species […]
Staying at home for a few days can be quite exciting, however being stuck at home for months at a time can be a dreadful bore. Many people are combating this exhausting boredom with activities such as gardening. One in every three American households is said to have some sort of vegetable or fruit garden […]
Which came first, the chicken or the egg? In this case it is the egg. There are over 60 different types of chicken eggs. Some eggs are extra large like the ones laid by Leghorns, Welsummers, or Barnevelder chickens. Other eggs that are laid can come in a variety of colors. For example, Easter Egger […]
A staple of orchestral ensembles, the violin has existed in its modern form for approximately five centuries. Its versatility can charm even the most sophisticated of audiences and, in the hands of an expert fiddler, bring life to any hoedown. The violin, or fiddle in less formal settings, has been evolving since the days of […]
Coffee! Is it really good for you? Actually, there are good effects and some bad effects from drinking coffee. If you drink coffee in moderation, it is safe to drink three to four cups a day. Coffee is a drink processed from the roasted beans of the coffea arabica bush. Coffee will increase mental alertness, […]