5-element

Gem, I was only kidding and fantasizing...LOL if foam mattresses could rip the kilos off one, it would be common knowledge by now. (sigh).

Great info all around, thank you. Looking into weight loss and mattresses: If a sprung mattress absorbs 2 litres of water per night, in a double bed that is one liter per person - so possible to lose one kilo each every night? For faster and more efficient weight loss, perhaps a latex mattress absorbs twice that? If you then add extra activity, your bed be the optimal location for maximum weight loss. Good news.

I hear you Wilko, I really do. And I know it gets pretty hot in your part of France. But could it be that clients/guests never complained because they were not the complaining type? Also, I think one is prepared to overlook more discomfort while on holiday. Especially if you have come from a long way up north, and then you might think that your nightsweats are only due to the Midi climate! (would love to be able to do emoticon, would be a big smily one)

But how HOT do they get in the summer? I am watching this thread like a hawk, as we need to replace our mattresses too. But the canicule can be a real problem....

In our commune (I believe there is something similar in most), once a month there is a day for "ramassage des encombrants" where the council will come and remove any large/bulky/unmanageable objects from you. It is advisable to let them know in advance what object (settee, bed, etc..) you need removed.

[quote user="sweet 17"]  Oh, forgot I was meant to be miserable and depressed..........! [/quote] Ah yes, but that was BEFORE. Now your life can start again - all you needed was a couple of bags of chickpeas, and a few recipes...[:D]

Coming in a bit late, but still wanting to add my congratulations to Cooperlola, and also to the shy retiring types hiding behind her. Fantastic work. I, too, will send that link to the people for whom it is relevant. Well done, I am in awe of so much skill and talent and determination.[blink]