the horse is probably the girl's best friend, and he's probably enjoying the attention. i had a horse when i was that age and spent most of my time with him, brushing and braiding his mane and tail, teaching him tricks and basically treating him like a pet dog. he loved it. i think that given their choice, most pets would rather be dressed up and fussed over than completely ignored as so many are.

(by the way, this appears to be a gelding, not a stallion. much better choice for a child.)

I think it was a very difficult decision, and she was quite brave to have admitted she was not able to give the child what he needed. Thankfully there was someone else out there who was able to do so. From what I understand, she spent a lot of time trying to find the most suitable new home for the child, so it's not like she just handed him back without a care in the world.

Sure, it's a sad and very confusing situation all around. But I know for a fact that there are far more children who would have had better lives had they been given up for a chance to find a more suitable home instead of having lived with someone who was not equipped to provide what they needed.

I think this is really one of those "judge not let ye be judged" kind of things. I wish everyone involved nothing but the best for the future.

and he didn't eat the pig....?

I like to make "fried noodles and eggs" with my ramen.

Cook 1 package ramen till done, drain and toss with half the seasoning packet and some sesame oil, throw into a hot (nonstick!) skillet coated with oil, let crisp on bottom. Then flip over and break up noodles; pour in one or two eggs beaten with a tablespoon of soy sauce (or to taste). Turn and mix until egg is done to your liking. Good stuff!

This one got me through a lot of really broke days.

Dear Deborah and Wayne,

We now realize we were being entirely too optimistic in assuming it would be obvious that our Squirrel Underpants come unfinished so they might be custom tailored to perfectly fit each squirrel.

As you must have noticed while trying this fine garment on different squirrels, tail-set on this four-legged customer are widely varied. Some squirrels' tails are located much higher on the rump than others, making it virtually impossible for us to simply churn out underpants "one size fits all." Instead, we strive for a quality product each squirrel can feel proud of.

We do apologize for the misunderstanding, and suggest you contact a good squirrel tailor in your area to have them do the necessary measuring, cutting and hemming required to make your squirrel underpants fit your furry friend like a glove.

There's no doubt in our minds that you and your squirrel will be absolutely delighted with your pants once this custom alteration has been made. Your understanding in this matter is greatly appreciated.

With kind regards,
Neatorama Squirrel Boutique,
etc., etc.