And I'm pretty sure Cash I just said exactly the same thing, but she was, as is often the case AND the style of the time, more eloquent and smarter than I.

For a total change of pace, check out this brilliant dog:

[link]

That move she does? Is called a chimney. Color me impressed.

I don't go into a stall to change, but when I'm at the gym, it's not social for me. I want to get in there and get back out so I can pick up some groceries and go home and maybe eat dinner before 9pm. The idea of engaging in naked small talk time? I'd prefer it if you gave me a paper cut and poured lemon juice on it.

I am a prude. I am an enemy of fun.

Before I had children, I loved hanging out at playgrounds. Sometimes I watched the kids play, but mostly *I* felt safer there than maybe in the middle of the park where, in my mind, there was more danger. I wanted to read my book, have my lunch, or whatever? I liked to go to playgrounds.

Yep, that's how I feel too. But as I said, I get the desire for parents to feel safe. It just makes me sad.

So, I'm going to be looking for part-time digs for the days I am out of town at Grad School. A church friend knows someone right by campus who is looking for a roommate and sent an introductions email.

What would you want to know about a potential roommate?

There are plenty of playgrounds/parks where there aren't restrictions. And where someone reading a book or just sitting getting some sun while watching the kids play wouldn't raise an eyebrow. It's not a universal thing, especially outside of really urban areas.

Yep, all very true.

Debet, I'd want to know what kind of hours s/he keeps, guests, pets, etc. Mostly I'd want to get a sense of his/her personality.

What would you want to know about a potential roommate?

What their hours are; are they at home all the time; do they travel; what kind of music do they listen to; is there a bf/gf who would stay over often; do they have pets and what are they; is there a truly common common space; are they willing to share some foodstuffs or do you have to buy everything on your own including basics (milk, flour, cheese, etc); do you get your own bath and if not when do they use it; whether they'd be willing to go in on a housecleaner every few weeks so neither of you ends up getting resentful about unequal distribution of labor.

signed, I have had too many roommates.

There are plenty of playgrounds/parks where there aren't restrictions. And where someone reading a book or just sitting getting some sun while watching the kids play wouldn't raise an eyebrow. It's not a universal thing, especially outside of really urban areas.

I sure as hell hope it doesn't become a massive national trend. My visceral squick is just that strong. Speaking as a parent.

Hmmm, Consuela, that sounds like a great list of issues to discuss t bookmarking but possibly a bit much for my, "Hi, I'm Abi" email.