Ask Rachel

Interesting fact: The phenomenon where you keep noticing something over and over once you become aware of it is called the “frequency illusion” or the “Baader-Meinhof phenomenon.” Now you’ll start seeing “Baader-Meinhof” wherever you look. 

Interesting fact: Reportedly, before Chicago started dyeing the river green, the mayor considered dyeing Lake Michigan. That is dye hard.

Interesting fact: Financial experts say that no amount is too small to start investing. After all, if you invest just $5 in the stock market today, in 10 years you could have as much as $15!

Interesting fact: In a piece about cop cars as PR vehicles (ha), the WaPo highlighted a 1933 report finding that citizens believed a police force had doubled once they painted the cars white to make them more visible. So just imagine what yellow paint would do. 

Interesting fact: Fire hydrants, apparently still called “fire plugs” by some people, are also called “fire cocks.” There’s your Valentine’s Day conversation starter.

Interesting fact: Taupe originally referred not to a wide range of dark gray-brown shades but to the specific color of the average French mole. Because (French accent) of course.

Interesting fact: Chex Mix was the creation of the Ralston Purina Co. Chow down, puppy dogs. (But of course, it was reportedly first popularized by the wife of an executive, once again shelving the accomplishments of a woman and a goddamn American hero.)

Interesting fact: If the dictionary is to be believed, nog is a strong ale that used to be brewed in parts of England. So strong, I bet it went straight to your noggin.