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Melanie has worked as a radio station news reporter, as a press secretary in the Wisconsin State Legislature and as editor of two local publications. Since 1994, she has worked as a freelance writer and editor, specializing in travel and fitness.
She has won numerous awards for her writing, most notably prestigious Lowell Thomas Gold and Grand Awards for her travel journalism. Her first book, "Thousand-Miler" (Wisconsin Historical Society Press, 2017), is a memoir about her record-setting thru-hike of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
Recent Contributions
What's the Difference Between an Avenue, a Road and a Boulevard?
The name bestowed on a road depends on its size and function. And it's not just up to your neighborhood's developer either.
Lapland Is the Land of Eight Seasons
Four measly seasons may not be enough. The Sámi people of Lapland say their region's eight seasons better express their lifestyle and the cycles of their land. So, what are these seasons?
What's the Difference Between Baking Soda and Baking Powder?
Baking soda and baking powder are both leavening agents, but they work differently in batters and doughs. So, in a pinch, can you substitute one for the other?
The Cornish Game Hen Is Neither Cornish Nor a Hen
They look very festive at the holiday table but what are these pint-sized pieces of poultry, really?
The Snowy Dunes of White Sands National Monument Witnessed Atomic History
These brilliant gypsum dunes are the largest in the world and near the site of the first atomic bomb detonation in 1945. They're also renowned for their Instagram-ready landscapes. Our writer went for a visit.
Use of the Exclamation Point Has Exploded!
Once this skinny mark of excitement was mainly the provenance of excited teenage girls and inexperienced novelists. But now we're all peppering our sentences with exclamation marks. Is this a good thing?
Should You Always Take Off Your Shoes in Your Home?
Some people feel you track a lot of germs and dirt into your home if you keep your street shoes on inside, but studies have shown it's not that bad.
Hiking el Caminito del Rey, Once the World's Most Dangerous Trail
Our writer shares her experience of hiking Spain's el Caminito del Rey, once considered the world's most dangerous path. It was closed for 15 years after five people died on it and reopened in 2015 as a new, improved attraction.
Pickleball! It's the Fast-growing Sport With the Funny Name
Pickleball may be a funny name, but this paddle sport is attracting thousands of players across the U.S. and around the world.
The Missing States of the United States
There are 50 states in the U.S., but there have been many proposals over the years to add more.
Do You Have to Pull Over for a Funeral Procession?
Few rules on funeral procession are enshrined in law; most are just customs. But that doesn't mean you should break them.
9 Uses for Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is most likely in your first-aid kit. But it can be deployed for a whole variety of cleaning, gardening and beauty purposes you may have never ever thought of.
3 Cool Charities Looking for Knitters
Do you yarn to help others with your crafty skills? If so check out some great charities looking for some knitting assistance.
How the Gender Pay Gap Works
The gender pay gap is usually expressed something like this: Women make 80 cents for every dollar a man makes. Where did this figure come from and is it still true?
The 'Wild' Effect? Why Hiking Is Surging in Popularity in the U.S.
In the last few years, trail hiking has exploded in popularity in America. What sparked the increase, and is this a good thing?
What Do the Numbers Inside Recycling Symbols on Plastic Items Mean?
There are seven different numbers you might see on a plastic container. And each number has its own meaning.
A Short History of How Netflix Won World Domination in Streaming
They have a date for when they'll deliver the last DVD, too.
Why Did the Harts Deliberately Drive Their Family Over a Cliff?
A new serial podcast delves into the tragic deaths of at least six members of the Hart family, whose SUV was driven off a cliff in California in early 2018.
Got Milk? It Might Depend on Whether It Came From a Cow or a Plant
The FDA is considering whether to enforce a rule that restricts usage of the term 'milk' to dairy products. But makers of plant-based milks like soy milk and almond milk are fighting back.
Knowing Your Tendency Helps You Conquer Life Goals
Author Gretchen Rubin says people have one of four personal tendencies that direct how we handle inner and outer expectations. Knowing your tendency can help you figure out how to manage change.
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