VEGGIEVILLE Based on the informal poll I just took in my head, people dwell within two camps when it comes to rats: First, they are foul scavengers who will eat anything as they live in dumpsters and sewers, and second, they live under hats and are master chefs a la Ratatouille."

As a former pet rat owner, I fall into neither of these camps. (Yes, I realize I rigged my internal poll as a cute literary device.) Pet rats are sweet and gentle creatures who love a little bonding time riding on your shoulder and snuffling in your ear. At least, thats how me and Piggy rolled in my youth.

So, its no surprise to me that pet rat Dexter has a sassy personality that compels him to refuse broccoli repeatedly and tenaciously. And you cant tell me that little face behind those wispy whiskers doesnt make the whole ordeal adorable.

I dont know if all rats have a distaste for broccoli or if this particular rat took a note out of former President George H. W. Bushs book, who famously said he hated broccoli and would no longer eat it now that he was the leader of the free world.