in planning for my trip, I need more spacifics about what I can take in my carry on and what I can't. I also see in some of the replies that speek of providing for one's own food. Is food service a thing of the past? Are we only speeking of snacks or meals?
First, you can check the allowed items on the TSA website, www.tsa.com. As for food service, it depends on what type of flight you are talking about, as well as what airline. Domestic flights might, or might not, provide a drink and snack (cookie or pretzels). International flights do still serve meals. On my recent flights to London and Ireland, two meals and a snack were served (on Virgin Atlantic and Aer Lingus, respectively). Flights on low-cost airlines, like Ryanair, will offer food and drinks for sale onboard. Ask your airline what will be served on your flight to be sure.
When I flew American over to Europe 5 years ago, they served food. However, since then I think they have changed their policies, and I'm not sure how since I haven't flown internationally since. But, when I flew to Hawaii on American a couple years ago, they had sandwiches and wraps for purchase only, no meals were provided. I know it's not international, but it is a long flight over an ocean... So, make sure you check their website. They should tell you.
We flew on American this summer from O'Hare to Rome. We were served dinner relatively early in the flight (5PM-ish) and breakfast soon before landing (early morning in Rome). What seemed different from the last time I flew internationally (I while ago) was the lack of extra snacks. If you aren't going to sleep, snacks at least help pass the time. You might want to pack your own. Anything that isn't liquid is fine to carry on.