There is very little in my life that makes me feel more like I've done pretty well than lying in my warm bed, flanked by cats who are purring not because I'm petting them (because my hands are under the covers) but because they're just happy to be next to me.

OMG OMG OMG I am reeling at architeuthis' size (isn't everyone???) but also your drawing is SO COOL and SO GOOD thank you for making this!

Grains are different and generally cooked differently from pasta; you definitely don't need to wash pasta!

I have been doing a YouTube dive basically since I commented lol.

I have literally never heard of her and so far I don't recognize ANYTHING but I'm probably about to pick up an album or two. This is so exciting! Thank you. :D

Oh shit, this is so good!

LOL But also: I work in a mostly open office but there's a boardroom with glass windows so you can look out into the workspace for various reasons and we call it the "no tears boardroom"

FWIW I have a pal who shows up to pride parades with a "FREE DAD HUGS" sign because he knows not everyone is as lucky as his (trans) kid, and he's definitely a decent guy.

See, and I think her talking about it in the first place, and you really listening to her is huge, too. 💖 I'm sure she recognizes that you care. :) (Manicure/pedicures, if she likes/can afford those, or has a friend who likes to do them, may also help!)

It's obviously not the same but if she has the money for regular massages/hair cuts (with shampooing done by a pro), those can make you feel a bit less like you live in a bubble. Beyond that...talking to her friends about it is exactly right; she may have friends who feel the same way!