msbelle, I am not a parent and I don't really know what I'm talking about in general, but I can't help but think that the only reason he can "not want a relationship with you right now" is because deep down he knows you will be there when he wants to turn to you. And that's gotta be a win.

Thanks y'all. It will be fine, he will have his own part of the house at my parents' for the Holidays and can join us if he wishes. I plan on cooking everything because it makes me happy, watching the parade because it does also, watching football with me dad because he likes it, putting up Christnas the day after for my mother, and then doing the decorations in my house over the weekend. I did things alone for years, I can do it again.

Spelling question for the hivemind: I went to grade school in the '60s, in Southwestern Pennsylvania. I was taught to spell judgement with the e in the middle. As the little red squiggly line shows, this is not standard American spelling. I didn't come up with that spelling on my own, so I must have been taught it, and I was never corrected on it. It's the standard British spelling, and I'm wondering if anyone else was taught to spell it that way. I saw a story yesterday about both spellings being accepted. Does anyone else remember how they were taught to spell judgement (a spelling I'm clinging to, because get off my lawn)?

WindSparrow, I'll try that! The bleach didn't work, so although the rest of my floor is nicely sparkly, Splotchy Spice is still representing.

Sail, I'm so sorry for your loss.

The bleach didn't work, so although the rest of my floor is nicely sparkly, Splotchy Spice is still representing.

If baking soda paste doesn't work, I'd go right for the Magic Eraser.

Connie, American English prefers it without the "e" and British seems to prefer it with, but both spellings are correct. Just be consistent!

we hates inconsistency, we does

Windsparrow, I neglected to leave encouraging thoughts for you. I've no doubt whatever you'll work your usual competent magic with your new circumstances. I think you have that kind of touch, even if sometimes you can't believe it yourself. You'll be very good at what you're doing now.

And Billytea, congratulations! Milestones are important, even though what we usually do is take a deep breath and enjoy achievement for a moment before looking around for the next milestone.

Oh gosh, I found out this morning that my immediate superior (and friend)'s mother died in a car crash last night. I can't imagine what she must be going through right now.

I don't think I was specifically taught how to spell judgment. Both spellings seem fine to me and I doubt I am consistent, although I will obey the red squiggly line if it comes up.

Windsparrow, I neglected to leave encouraging thoughts for you.

Oh, me too! I meant to say something. The first days really are the hardest days, especially when you are getting the training after you have to do the thing. Your intentions to do right by your underlings and clients will see you through in the long run.

My management and people in other departments are irritating me no end today. For totally minor petty reasons, but I would prefer not to have these aggravations when I am swamped with actual work.

Oh, Matt, how awful!