I didn't realize that 3 stars is a poor rating--but rather average. Do people inflate ratings?

Yeah, Cash-- that doesn't surprise me at all. The amazon ratings are an absolute joke-- with books, there are authors who have what they call "Clicky cliques" who are fans/readers/family members who will click the five star ratings and if an honest reviewer happens to leave a a less-than-favorable review, say, anything less than a four, then those same "clickers" will constantly click "no" on the "Was this review helpful to you" and will do so on any other review that that reviewer has left. They'll also slam the reviewer on the amazon forums.

It's an ugly, ugly business and absolutely shameful to know there are authors out there who are perpetuating this sort of behavior. It's just sad that it's extended to all of the products/vendors. That said, I wouldn't remove the review. It's fair, based on your experience. If they can't handle it, tough.

I have coffee in hand, but apricot Ceylon tea in my mug. The pancakes were pretty good! I cheated and used vegetable oil instead of melted butter, and therefore skipped the egg-separation step and used fewer containers, but it was still good.

Doesn't stop me from coveting the banana bread, though. I shall supplant the orange craving with a clementine anon.

Am I right in thinking "prodigal" is often used to mean long-lost-but-now-returning and not spendthrift?

Do people inflate ratings?

I think the explanation is that people who rate tend toward the super-satisfied or pissed off, so there are relatively few middle-raters. I think that if you've explained the why of the rating then you don't need to edit.

Ass them in the ear, Cash. If they wanted a better rating they should have provided better service.

The cafeteria had cornmeal porridge this morning.

Is this a different thing than grits?

Grits are coarser than cornmeal.

Is this a different thing than grits?

Yes, though I could not tell you precisely why.

Grits are white and (I believe) cooked with water. My porridge is yellow and has sugar, cinnamon sticks, and milk.

Oh dear I don't wanna go back don't wanna!!!!

ita, I wonder if you are conflating prodigal and profligate?

I am in such a foul mood. mr. flea just got back from 8 days in Belgium and France, and next Tuesday leaves for 4 nights again. He told me it was the 10-12th, so I reasonably assumed 2 nights. 4 nights is double that (it is actually 9th-13th). Grrr.

I should shower and start doing productive things, but I have a serious case of the don't wannas.