God, "calm down" is probably the least helpful thing someone can say in a crisis. A young male friend of ours is having young adult angst about the world and his place in it, and was having a rant in a public place, and I asked him to lower his voice because we were in public and nearby people were looking antsy. He did lower his voice, and a bit later he thanked me for asking him to do something specific and appropriate instead of just a blanket "calm down" like his mother does.

Hubby handed me a form for life insurance through AARP the other day. Normally we just throw those out, but . . .

What is the difference between whole life and term life? Is term life essentially a bet that you'll need it before the term is up, and if not the insurance company goes Cha-ching! and invites you to play again?

bonny, she's not here, but if she were Franny would vote for the velvet one both out of a preference for velvet and a dislike of tulle and other itchy fabrics.

1. Numberslut

2. I just came across what might be the king of all Tough Last Names to Have in Jr. High: Butswinkas

I really like the velvet one as well, Burrell. I support Franny's preference. I like that it can be dressed up or down and, I figure, O is going to spend a LOT of time dancing. The stretchy velvet will be so much more comfy.

Plus, I was not kidding about O's ability to accessorize. She can throw 7 different things together and make an amazing 'look'.

I'm definitely voting for that one.

Butswinkas

Definitely a reason to choose a cloistered lifestyle.

Unless he's some sort of cool guy or killer athlete I suppose.

I've always suspected Dick Butkiss became a football player out of pure survival instinct.

I vote velvet dress.

I love the velvet dress! Why don't they make dresses like that (at that good price) for grown-ups?

Now I want a velvet dress, only maxi length. I used to have several. Why oh why do I no longer have one? Oh yeah, completely different body type now.