I was just thinking about statistical data yesterday and how it can be valid, but totally misleading by its interpretation or context. There are far too many assumptions being made in the name of science by accepting somebody else's interpretations without questioning it. What makes people obese? With few exceptions one gets fat by taking in more calories than they are able to burn off. It's pretty dam*ed simple. I think what got me started on it was something my daughter shared with me. She was reading labels at the market on the yogurt containers. Nice healthy food? Sure. But, take a closer look at those new fruit enchanced ones. Look at the FRUCTOSE added, IOW corn sirups. It has even found it's way as an additive in yogurt. Now, you can buy plain yogurt and add your own fresh and wholesome fruit but that takes a little effort. It's in some juices. I found it in cranberry juice cocktail last week. So, the health benefits I would obtain from consuming the juice are negated by also consuming the corn sugars. Please folks, just take the time for one week to read every label on every food you purchase and consume. It's an eye opener. As for soft drinks? I keep some on hand, but to me they are a "treat" to be consumed as such. I would never even consider that they are a necessary part of of anybody's daily diet, least of all a child's. They consist mostly of sugar and contain caffiene. Add to this that they are rarely served in restaurants in normal serving sizes. What ever happend to the eight ounce glass? The typical serving at fast food joints are now a twenty one ounce mug. Once in awhile, this isn't going to make or break a waistline. But consumed on a regular basis, as a nation we are killing our children with it. Please look at the new statistics for type II diabetes. It's now becoming a childhood disease. God help us.

LindaC, I am not a gum chewer. I've been on Zantac for a couple of years for gastric reflux but I seldom take it because I didn't need to very often which is why he's thinking it's the reflux. That'll be the next round of tests, I'm sure. Lars, the doc is about 15 minutes away, in a neighboring town, but he's my general practitioner. If I need a specialist, it's 50 miles to Grand Rapids, they are closest. So, we'll keep trying... Thanks everyone, for the good thoughts. Annie

Sending good thoughts and hopes for a good outcome ... and offering prayers on Bill's behalf ... and for confidence and peace of mind for all of you in the midst of it all. (((((Bill, Terri and the whole family))))) I'm pleased that you've re-established some connections with acquaintances/friends from the past, also. What a small world it sometimes turns out to be - and I've sometimes said that it could well be that often we won't find out unless we ask a question or two, or make a couple of comments, more than one might regularly expect to do. Sometimes it's the second mile that produces the payoff. ole joyful

(((((Stacy))))) As a new member here, I am glad to meet you and I wish you only success in your life. And going to Disney is a wonderful fun place to relax and be a kid again. I'm not sure what the cyber tea cups are, but they seem to have a negatative connotation when mentioned, so perhaps I am best not knowing. LOL But I can vouch for the Disney tea cups, they are great and exciting way to enjoy the Disney experience. Enjoy your vacation. Helen