: Cindy admits to Mike that she kissed another boy, leaving him with the awkward task of breaking the news to Brick. Critical Reception
The episode follows three primary storylines as the family members deal with "the daily grind": [S7E12] Birds of a Feather
Reviewers from The TV Ratings Guide praised the episode for its character-driven moments: : Cindy admits to Mike that she kissed
: The ending, where Frankie and Axl bond over their shared hatred for work and brainstorm an ice cream store idea, was cited as "hilarious" and a "great ending". : Alan Ruck makes a guest appearance in this episode as Dr
: Sue is challenged by a college professor to move beyond her "rose-colored glasses" and apply critical thinking to her writing.
: Alan Ruck makes a guest appearance in this episode as Dr. Ted Goodwin. Episode Data Original Air Date January 13, 2016 Viewership ~7.46 million viewers Guest Star The Middle S7E12 Review - The TV Ratings Guide
: Frankie and Axl both find themselves hating their jobs; Frankie is miserable under the new corporate ownership at the dental office, while Axl is disillusioned by his first day as an intern.