Ok, I just had to say something on the treat debate. I know I am going to be torched for giving my kids dried fruit, but I have to say if the treat makes my kids do a dance of glee, well than unless it's really, really bad for them - I don't see why I can't give it in moderation. ------------------------- Raisins - I don't think my kids consider raisins a treat. Mostly they think it's a poor substitute. Craisins - Better than raisins but still second choice. Cereal - Any kind is just ok. They don't get very excited for it. Pounce (dried/soft) - So-so, mostly not interested. 8-1 Bits (affectionately known as *stinky treats*) - They like them better than raisins. Cheap kitty foods - Nah - forget it - they're too spoiled with good kibble. Dried papaya - WINNER! OMG - my kids will kill for a piece of dried papaya. They will actually try and snatch it out of each others mouths! This is one treat they will not share amongst one another. I have seen one kid chase the other kid while hissing, grunting, and pushing goes on. It's amazing how much dried papaya is coveted. No other treat has ever come close to the enthusiasm that papaya generates. But I also want to clarify that the ONLY dried papaya (and any other dried fruit) that is given to my kids is preservative free with no added sugars or additives. I get my supply from the health food store. I do not give any dried fruit that comes from a mixture (like w/ dried coconut and ginger) or that is "hard" dried. It is strictly health food quality and very, very soft and pliant. I've never had a blockage or had anyone choke on a piece (unless you consider them trying to swallow it whole because they're so greedy!). This doesn't mean that it may not ever happen - and if it ever does at that time I will reevaluate my decision to give it to them. But until than, they get so much pleasure from this favorite treat I won't (don't want to) stop giving it to them. Happy dooks, Tanya [Posted in FML issue 3618]