Morning, Either my computer is messed up or GW is having problems. I opened this thread a few mins ago. I wanted dh to see Tropic's gold Mantis. The pic didn't show. I thought I was losing it. lol. Also, I replied to Cactus Boss and Asleep last night before shutting down. My thread is gone! WTH? Cactus Boss, does GW have a Mantid forum? Nope, no crickets..no live food. :) Asleep, we have doors, of course, but the rooms are so small we leave them open. Actually, although mantis are beautiful and might make good pets, they're better off outdoors. Just my opinion. Cockatiels. Poor 'tiels are in danger outdoors, too..farmers in Australia shoot them so the birds stay out of their seed. Which is understandable. So, if they don't get shot, they know what to eat to survive. God protects the innocents. Think I mentioned watching mantis vids on Youtube. Some were gross..a poor mantis being attacked by a cat, while 'humans!' taped. I felt so bad for that mantis. I'd like to beat the FXXX out of the ppl who shot the video. BTW, Asleep, I'm a non-violent person. lol. Tropic, that's right, it's winter in your location. What month does summer begin? To be honest, before starting this thread, I had no idea mantis molted. I've learned a lot about mantis since getting the egg cases. 'including, egg 'case' ID. When they molt, do they shed like a snake or bird? Or neither? Wonder where your gold mantis family is staying?? I should do more research. For instance, after mom lay the egg cases does she take off, leave the eggs/babies to fend for themselves? And where is dad? Does he skip town? lol I wonder if your gold mantis sees you prowling around at night while he/she is prowling. lol, and what he/she thinks. If they think. Wonder if they think, 'as we know/use the thought process,' or eat/drink/mate through sense. I hope gold mantis stays in your yard..perhaps you can take photos as he/she matures. If it's not too much trouble. Cleaning its arms..At least mantis sense hygiene is important. Tropic, you live in a beautiful area. I truly envy you. On the other hand, for all the beauty around you, I imagine insects/spiders are 5-times larger. :) Toni

I don't know who she is - other than a mom and obviously a comedian or maybe a motivational speaker. The radio station I listen to actually played this today (KLTY). A dad called into the station and sounded like he was begging them to play it. I got the link from a website called It's Good to be the Queen - for moms of all boys. Linda Ford, who operates the website sends a weekly e-mail newsletter and this was in her newsletter.

So sorry for your horrible news. Your Mom has been through more than most people could have tolerated. She is amazingly strong. So sad for you and your family that she is suffering so. I cannot say that I know what it feels like to lose one's mother, as I still have mine. But I did watch my Dad die, and I know some of the feelings you are having. It is one of the most difficult parts of life. I am praying for you and your family.

No, please don't delete it. I never go to the Kitchen Table forum...maybe I should, if posts like this are there. How wonderful; thanks for sharing. Rather sickening sentiment of your brothers, though--but it's good to see you all didn't let it spoil your time. What a fabulous idea to see the Cirque Odyssey with her! I sure wish I had a mom to visit and celebrate with. I bet your mother is so, so proud of her two beautiful daughters and thankful for her loving family. Happy belated birthday wishes from Oregon...