coffee

The term "a lot" is accepted now but was slang. "A lot" does not actually mean "many". It is singular for a grouping of people or things. Multiples of this would be 2 lots, 3 lots, etc. For example: "Jimmy is selling a lot of toys on Ebay and Jane is selling 2 lots. Jimmy's lot contains 6 toys and Jane's lots each contain 15." The use of "a lot" to mean many used to be improper and is simply an example of a slang term being used until it was accepted. So, why is there such a mental "tick" toward the word "alot"? It seems like it would make more sense to use a new single word (alot) and not continue using the improper 2 word version (a lot).

My pug gets interdigital cysts occasionally. The vet says she appears to be prone to getting them. Does anyone have any preventative suggestions? I have a couple treatments once she gets them that work well. I hate to see her go through it though, so if there is anyway to prevent (or reduce) them let me know.

My dog has no fear, except when it comes to claw clipping. It appears that before I got him, someone really did a hatchet job on his claws and must have really hurt him. If I get out the clippers he runs. When I catch him, if I just touch the clippers to his paw (not clipping - even touch the handle to his paw), he gives out a huge yelp, does everything he can to break free, and cowers under coffee table. Poor fella.