It's funny the way we picture people we know only by a forum or blog name. I was born and raised in the deep South. As we say, "American by birth and Southern by the grace of God." That's the way I feel and at my age, I am a Steel Magnolia to the bone. I do live in a rural area because I do not like people crammed in by other people. I enjoy nature, forests, rivers and such. There are drawbacks, as you mentioned: not having massive numbers of specialists and medical facilities to choose from, but that's a small price to pay. I avoid doctors and hospitals because I've never been sickly, so I never thought it would be important. And, at my age, I'm not interested in anyone running tests that may or may not be necessary or prescribing meds to fatten their purses and Big Pharmas. I researched foods for emergencies and that's where peanut butter, crackers, and non perishables that I mentioned came from. The problem is the salt and of course, carbs and anything used to preserve. I don't eat fish: just a personal aversion of mine. We have electricity now, so a trip to the grocery is necessary, although since there is only one and it's small. But, it's okay. I'm probably odd too that I do not drink smoothies or blender drinks. I am not a coffee fan either. I was raised on sweet tea and diet Coke. Now, both of those are on the no-no list. So I drink water. Diabetes is hard for me. Getting a menu for a week is impossible, so I try to do two days at a time. Since I'm not a cook, I sometimes give up, drive, and get meals from a restaurant. There is just no easy way to deal with diabetes; it's all consuming, and I don't like to spend my time that way. At my senior age, I am somewhat stubborn.

Thanks for the suggestions.

retiredteacher