I couldnt agree with you more Ms. Wagner. Oprah opens up her life and lets us just dive in. She shows us that everyone has struggles to face and that your celebrity factor doesnt change that. She is a prime example that underneath it all, we are all just human beings, and nothing is perfect. I really feel that she does the things she does, and speaks so freely like she does, makes her a very comendable person in this sometimes too cosmopolitan world. She is indeed a wonderful national treasure, and role model. :)

You are right Jane Wagner. Oprah’s weight should not be a concern to anyone but Oprah. Look at “Ruby”, the tv show about a very overweight woman. Her personality and charm shines through but her weight is a health issue as well as a personal one. Oprah is great. She can be any weight she chooses and she still is charming and beautiful and talented. But she apparently does not look at her self like that. I am glad she chooses to share with the public. But it is obvious that the problem as far as Oprah is concerned is much deeper. We can say all we want to about she is loved and should not be that concerned. Bottom line is that it is a real health issue in some people. And it is a daily anxiety problem with many people. Oprah has to make her own decisions of course and we will love her any way she chooses to be in her life. Obviously assurance from the public is nice but it is still a health issue with her. If she needs to choose her own way then so be it. She is one of the most influential women of this and last century. Bravo to her in whatever she does. The bottom line is that if she did not want the public to respond to her discussions, she would not put it out there. J.W. you are a wonderful writer and very suppportive person it is obvious to me. Just wish the best for your friend, Oprah, whatever she opts to do.

ahhh yes but remember what Whoopi said on the view this week??? a lot of times its a little thing in your neck (thyroid). For the first time in my life I have a high TSH (which everyone should be tested) and have been put on medication for it. I couldn’t figure out what was wrong with me I was gaining weight (fast) and so exhausted-constipated etc…… now I am on the thyroid meds I am starting to feel better—-seeing as I had heart surgery this past Feb I assumed my recovery was sliding backwards—-NOPE it was that little thing in my neck!!!!!

Ms Jane, I too, think it is commendable that Oprah is so open to us with her whole self. She has gone through a remarkable recovery process and I do, indeed, applaud her. Oprah if you are reading this, you just keep on doing what you do. I do not believe you worry so much about what we each think, rather more about your own personal goals and expectations. If it helps though, I love you either way. Actually, I feel as though you got too serious with yourself after losing the weight, and perhaps expect more of yourself than need be. Getting older is just a fact of life. As we get older, we lose our agility and our ability to be as flexible and spry as before. I think it is disgusting and totally unfair - but, true. Until and unless we can find a way to change the aging process, we are all going to get older, flabbier, heavier, and greyier. Of course, there is always medical science for those who can afford a complete change over - ah, but is it worth it? I don’t know, I can’t afford it. My best to you Oprah. You are still one of my sheros. JANE; I have a message for you and Lily - I am not getting anymore information from or about “Jenny” - have either of you heard anything, new? Please let us know, if you have new information. Thanks.

Jane, Please spoil us some more with your care-toons. I need my toon-fix. I am missing them too much. Thanks, Ro

Jane, You are sorely missed. WE WANT MORE TOONS! wahhhhh! Grown woman having a tantrum, here! I wish you and Lily and all the rest, the best of the Hannakuh, Kawansi, Christmas seasons. I know I left some out, I just don’t know all the seasonal names and religions. My apologies if anyone got offended. If you got offended then please let me know what I left out. Thanks. I think it is okay to be more inclusive, rather than less meaningful during this time of year. (And, I don’t even believe Jesus was born in December!) grin…

spelling error sorry - Kawansa

Ro, not that it matters because it is the wish that counts but “Kwanza” is the correct spelling…………..my best to you for the coming year.