The Michigan Nightjar, or Common Nighthawk, is a bird of prey that flies erratically, like a bat. Some people call them bug-eaters. They have a small beak with a big mouth, interesting vocalizations, and usually hunt at dusk and dawn.

Heterochromia is an eye condition caused by a random genetic mutation. There are variations—Partial, Complete and Central Heterochromia. People and animals with Complete Heterochromia have two different colored eyes.

A Coney Dog is a natural-casing hot dog slathered in chili, diced onions and mustard served on a steamed bun. In Michigan, particularly in the Detroit and surrounding areas, Coney Island restaurants are kind of a big thing.

Only the best card game ever invented! It’s popular in Michigan and the midwest.

A Michigan left is what Michiganders call an indirect left turn or median U-turn. It’s a right turn followed by a U-turn. They’re everywhere.

A Yooper refers to a person born in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Separated by the Mackinaw Bridge, Yoopers refer to the Lower Peninsula residents as Trolls.

Michigan is called the Mitten State because the Lower Peninsula looks like a mitten. Michiganders point to their hand to show what part of the state they’re from.

It varies. Current favorites include Azul, Blokus, Ticket to Ride Rails & Sails, and Machi Koro.

My favorite fiction books have well-developed characters with their own quirks and personalities. A few personal favorites are Animal Farm by George Orwell, To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee, and Ready Player One by Ernest Cline.