I like just about everyone here (with the odd - very ODD - exception, of course!), we are very fortunate to have such a great mix on these Forums. One of the reasons these Forums are the best around. We don't all always get along sometimes but that's the same as with RL, yeah? For the most part, I think the inter-action is enjoyable, informative and a way of communicating with others from all over the globe, when we might well not be able to otherwise.
As for admire... yes, there are those for whom I have a fondness and a high regard for. They know who they are..... and many I keep in touch with off-site.
This was a long time coming but inevitable, eh, Ambrose?!! I bet you've been chomping at the bit with this one...??!!
There is an organisation called The Apostrophe Society. I used to think it was picky and a lot of fuss over nothing but then I don't really have a problem with punctuation..... Now, I must confess bad use of punctuation (or none at all) does annoy me a little.
Bear in mind those with word-blindness or dyslexia though, yeah?!
I have not been in such a situation but I'm convinced that lying won't really solve anything.
It may be that your mother just wants to see you are behaving in a way, and fulfilling your obligations, as best as possible because that's the way she PROUDLY raised you?
From what you say, you are doing your bit to the best of your ability. With that in mind, I can't see you have anything to reproach yourself about. Besides, its really between you and your ex and you don't mention that she has any problem with the arrangement?
It seems to me that your behaviour is so much more commendable than many others who shirk their responsibilities, so...
In an ideal world, yes, we would ALL be equal. Alas, human beings are "political" creatures in all aspects of life and, therefore, you will find that we are all equal.... its just that some are more equal than others?!
RE: Why do so many CSers believe that an apostrophe makes a word plural?
Are you sure there's a hyphen in it...??!!