When a prospective employer acts so unprofessional, it's probably a sign that you should be glad that the offer was withdrawn in the longer run. (This is, of course, best enjoyed when your husband has landed a splendid SECURE job in a nice location.)

What is the last thing that made you smile unexpectedly?

Here, have two things! This morning the conference staff who've seen me every day stopped me and enthusiastically asked me about my wardrobe, and all said that seeing me has been the high point of their mornings all week.

Yesterday during one of the breaks, I chatted with another attendee (I complemented her "straight, but not narrow" pin), and we had a wonderful talk about her trans daughter, how she and her daughter do trans education outreach, and all about supporting kids who are outside of the norm. She said, "Having a trans child is a blessing. I wish more parents understood that." She made me very happy.

There's still the job in ABQ, but of course now I am discontented with that prospect. I almost wish they wouldn't make him the offer, so we could still pursue stuff in Houston. Which is a stupid way to look at it.

'Suela, you are NOT a bad daughter. You are doing what is best for your mom, your dad, and (VERY IMPORTANT) your sanity.

Dana, that's very unprofessional. Theo is right, it's a sign that working there would be ... not great.

Well, now I'm torn between rage at Dana's DH's chain-yanking former future employers (and Sparky's and Suela's current actual employers, just as chain-yanking and pain-causing) and turning into a puddle of sentiment at the lovely woman Jilli just met.

Fury, joy, fury, joy.

When a prospective employer acts so unprofessional, it's probably a sign that you should be glad that the offer was withdrawn in the longer run

Theo is absolutely right here and I would have said the same thing if she hadn't beaten me to it. Should I also say that I find "doesn't fit into culture" excuse to be wildly problematic. There are "good" reasons to use that phrase I suppose, but 80% of the time I find that excuse to be bs.

I'm sorry Dana.

and turning into a puddle of sentiment at the lovely woman Jilli just met.

She was so lovely. I talked about my friend who transitioned last year and is now volunteering at a community space for queer and trans teens; and the lady gave me a photo card with pictures of her daughter and a link to the website that talks about their story. I can't wait to give it to Maura.

So the Menorahmobile was just parked in front of our building. I managed to get a picture as it left.

My boss told me about it--it's used by a sect of proselytizing Jews (I forget what they're called).

Since I started working in Highland Park, I've been approached twice by them. They leave me alone after asking me if I'm Jewish and me telling them no.

Consuela, you are the opposite of a bad daughter. There are just no unambiguously "right" things to be doing in your family's situation now. I think giving your day a morning of potential quiet is the best option now.

And, ugh, Dana! What stupidity!

This was not an unexpected smile because, puppies are kind of known for being cute, but this is the picture CB's former foster mom sent last night:

[link]

I feel kind of bad that we don't have the space for multiple dogs. Clearly she'd like a puppy of her own!

Lubavitchers, probably?