Do you ever do something and then ask yourself why?  Well, on this one I need some reinforcement that I did a good thing; in the name of learning.

     The other day while I was sitting with Randy watching him work on his "Get Ready For The Code," I spotted a Praying Mantis outside on the picnic table.  I immediately jumped out the door and made the capture.  My intentions were to bring it in and let him take a look (all the other kids were sleeping) and then, of course, LET IT GO!

     I am sure you can see where this is going.  Yep, he got attached to the silly thing.  Right away he named it Alex Ander (no, not Alexander.....don't ask?!), and cried when I said Alex Ander had to go.  I felt bad, so I got online to find information about the Praying Mantis to see if it could indeed be kept as a pet.  I learned that they are carnivores.  They only eat other insects, but what is worse is that they prefer them alive!!!!  UGGH!!  What have I gotten myself into?

     So, I made little Randy a deal.  I told him that if his daddy would go to the pet store and buy a terrarium and agree to do the hunting for the food, well, then Alex Ander could stay.

     At first I thought this little creature was cute, but after my first witness of "dinner" I think I might get sick.  I don't think I will ever look at the Praying Mantis the same way again!