Thank you Bob for that rhapsody on grilled cheese. I have deep fondness for grilled cheese and tomato soup on a Saturday, and I remember Dad slicing from the Velveeta block. Ahhhhh.

Mary and Ruth about the 'what were they thinking' issue-- My mom also siezed on convenience foods, having been raised back before 'sliced bread' etc. Yet for all that, we ate fairly balanced meals that didn't make us fat, and seems like she, Dad, and all of us, had more time back then for things we considered more important than scrubbing carrots. There were music, books, cards, games, museums, visiting neighbors, school events, crafts, summer pool outings, etc.   

I cook lots of very healthy, tasty stuff these days, and most of it from scratch--once because I had to, and now because our health and budget depends on it. But when I take stock, I find it has become my main 'hobby', one I didn't really seek out. I have lost a LOT of days, hours, weekends, & sunset evenings to this pursuit, and frankly, I'd rather have been taking up real hobbies and exploring the world like dear old Mom. So I can't really fault her choice.

And to you English wonkers ragging on Velveeta as inedible! If my civilization placed kidney pie and black sausages in front of people claiming it was 'edible', I don't think I'd be so condescending.;-) WHAT are you people thinking?