Thanks alot Jo! Until Christmas last year, I was using my laptop on my lap with a pillow under it, so it makes sense after reading your post, that my battery was getting overheated. In fact, I asked my DH to get me a device that could sit on my lap, yet allow my battery to breath, as it would get so warm on my lap, esp w/it sitting on a cushy pillow.
He bought me a solid lightweight surface w/a pillow that is velcroed on the bottom to protect my legs. It's really neat and is made for laptops, so my pc battery can breathe now and not cause heat. But, I was having alot of battery charging problems before then, so the damage was done.
My new battery should be here today, so I will definitely use this new information to prolong it's life. I really really appreciate all the information everyone gave me.
Moi had sent me some similar info too, so thanks Muwah!!
Anne~ We can send our batteries to the old folk's home.