We LOVE our gerbils! They are desert animals so their waste is very dry and compact. Their cage rarely smells. They are friendly and curious. When we come into the room they'll run up to the side of the tank and stretch up to see us. Our cats are obsessed with them and the gerbils seem to be just as interested in them and aren't afraid at all. Gerbils are very low maintenance, big personality, high interaction critters. If you do decide on gerbils, make sure to get a pair. They're quite social and need a friend, they'll actually live longer if they aren't alone.

I couldn't vote because I would neither be flattered or uncomfortable. It would be more of a "meh" reaction from me. Of course, I would prefer to be thought of in a respectful, positive manner, but honestly, the opinions of others really don't bother me that much.

I didn't know there was an alternative definition. I would think Hot Wife means the man finds his wife exceptionally physically attractive.

Black skirt, sweater top sounds like business causal to me. The other one sounds nice, but maybe the skirt would be a bit too "fun" for a professional event?

No, I wouldn't sue. Unfortunately, this sounds like what my Aunt experienced with her detached retina. Surgery, detach, surgery, detach, surgery, etc. She still struggles with her vision to this day and she was about your Mother's age when all this started.

I'd announce it now, like today! That would give her a five or six week gap for the excitement to die down. And, let's be honest. It's not right, every baby should be celebrated profusely, but baby 13, folks are going to smile, nod, give you a hug and move on. Now twins, after infertility, folks are going to come completely unglued! So don't worry about stealing her thunder. Congratulations for your sweet little one!! They are certainly going to be loved!!

I've been noticing a bunch of junk posts on the Well Trained Mind Facebook page too. Someone on there is very excited about their Ray Ban sunglasses this morning. :glare:

Squeeeee!!

On an almost unrelated note, I have been binge watching "The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" which is a Netflix comedy about a woman who escapes a doomsday cult bunker. It's by Tina Fey and hilarious! It stars that cute redhead receptionist from The Office.

Thanks everyone! Oh the things we ask the Hive!

Tomorrow Dh is going in for the Big V. The office where he is getting the procedure done requires that I be there. So what should I expect? How long does this take? Am I in the room with him while they do this? How sore is he going to be? The place has been quite vague about the details.

Yikes! That's a bit brazen. The bakery at our grocery will give kids free cookies as long as their parents are with them, all you have to do is ask. I would never just take something and eat it. I also don't open packages in the store either which is something I see folks doing. Things that make you go hmm.

I do TONS of roasted garlic. Yummers!! I also like to do mashed sweet potatoes with lots of butter, maple syrup and pecans.

Welcome to the dark side! We have warm laps and shredded drapes.

I have never done it, but I can totally understand how it could be done, even by the most loving and attentive parents. Mom Brain is a real thing!

I could live with #2, 3 and 4. But #1 is just setting everyone up for a really bad time! When a four year old says they have to go potty, you stop the world and get that kid to the toilet!

I dearly loved the Muppets growing up. I still remember the big deal my parents made over Muppet Night! I was really excited to watch it last night but our antenna wouldn't pick up the signal and I was seriously disappointed!! But then this morning I started reading the avalanche of bad reviews from my friends on FB and now on here. It makes me so sad. Jim Henson was such a creative genius, I loved his work! To see the Muppets having evolved (devolved maybe?) into what it's become is very disappointing. They're pandering to the lowest common denominator now, when in the past, they used to never underestimate the intelligence of children! Our family is going to have to pass on this one. Maybe we'll just watch the original Muppet Show I have on DVD instead.

I just wanted to repeat and emphasis the bolded. Bolt is spot on.

I keep hearing on this forum about these wacky dentists that keep the parents out of the rooms. That seems so bizarre to me! Our dentist, ortho, eye dr., general practitioner, dermatologist, etc. have NEVER even suggested that we send our kids in alone. We're always welcomed. Your whole original post sends up more red flags than the Chinese army! Run, don't walk, to another practice.

I have an Associates and my Dh has various certificates in his field, but neither of us have four year degrees. Dh's job is very fulfilling and well paying despite his lack of a four year degree. And I am naturally curious and love to learn for learning's sake and don't feel like I missed out on anything by not going to a four year.

Did it puncture your skin? Cat bites can be nasty.

My little boys still get holiday and birthday cards from my Aunt addressed to Master Full Name Last Name. No nick names for my Aunt!!

Oh no! I'm dying here!!!! I'm so sorry about your poor dog, but that is EXACTLY what I needed today! Your poor, poor dog. And your poor daughter. This is going to come up in therapy some day when she's 30.

I remember very little from that movie except the extended pan of her hiney as she got out of some water. Her butt was a magnet and the poor camera man just couldn't pry away from it.