< satire>
Hi!!!!! I have data on several 1000s multi-generation family trees stored in a MySQL database. To faciltate a simple schema, I opted for a pretty novel representation: I store each tree *graphically* in gif files, concatentate all the gifs into one big binary object, and then store the huge resulting data in a one row, one field table. It is working pretty well so far, but I am seeking the wisdom of the Monks on how to update the structure when a couple with children *divorce* then *remarry* other people. (No modules, please: prefer to code everything myself.) Thanks in advance!!!!!
</satire>

Sigh. I'm not bashing the anonymous monk who posted; rather, expressing my amazement at the staggering ways folks (mis)use databases.