Bizi, I agree chemicals that are added to processed foods are slowly killing us. I try to eat mostly whole foods. You're lucky you never smoked. My DH and I stopped about 10 years ago. It was the best thing we ever did. In my day it was the thing to do. It's seems so funny now to watch the old movies, and how everyone is smoking.

I went to visit my granddaughter yesterday. She just delivered our first "Great" grandchild, a beautiful little girl, Sophia Catherine. I was telling her how when I had my son (her dad) 53 years ago, my cousin brought me cigarettes instead of flowers or candy. In those days they even let us smoke in the labor room at the hospital.

I have cooked quinoa, and I like it. I was a great fan of bulgur but I will switch and try to stay away from wheat. I'm following a wheat free diet as much as I can.

Where are you going for your cruise? I've been on cruises, and they are soooo much fun. The food is unbelievable. You have time to shed some pounds...think positive.