>I think the principle is that it's so unappealing and unappetizing you don't feel like eating anything at all.

I think you're right. He mentions that he doesn't have much of an appetite after the grapefruit, but he doesn't feel like he is cutting back on food, either.

>Any news on the dog front?

I really want a lab, and have started reading books and posting on forums, but I don't think it will happen. 10 hours home alone is way too much for a puppy. People on lab forums mentioned getting a grown lab, but they said the 10 hours was still too much, and that is probably true for any dog.

Maybe someday down the road I will either be able to make a midday trip home, or have a neighbor/nearby friend that would stop by a few times during the day. I don't see either happening soon though.