<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> I have written to each person that responded to me about the meals in nursing homes. I'm posting this to the list in case there are any of you that are offended by my suggestions that have not written me. I'm sorry if you have taken offense to my comments. I was merely trying to offer a different perspective/alternative. I am not judging anyone's decision and I am aware that many cannot or choose not to have children. Like I said, there is no need to explain your decision, it is your decision. I also am aware that I may not be able to keep my mother at home until she dies, but I do hope to postpone that. And, just because I have children, doesn't mean they will be willing or able to take on the responsibility of my dh or I, should the need ever arise. I agree with everyone that said that educating and reforming the nursing homes (not to mention schools, the armed forces, etc...) is *very* important. I have offered my service to work with meals for me (our rural version of meals on wheels) and the local food pantry in case anyone needs special diets, so far no one has taken me up on this. It would be great to "adopt" a nursing home resident, but at this stage in my life with 2 young children (one of which is homeschooled because of his celiac) and a farm to take care of, I cannot take on that task at this time. But in the future... I applaud everyone's eforts (no matter how small) at trying to make this disease/life style easier for people. And I hope my apology for offending doesn't offend anyone <g>. ~Crystal in Maine