Addictions

I don't know if it's due to genetics, upbringing or past-life experiences, but I don't appear to have any harmful addictive tendencies.

Last one before its demise

It may have something to do with the fact that my body doesn't tolerate mass quantities of alcohol. I've never been tempted to smoke. And I'm leery of taking painkillers. 

On the other hand, put me in front of a plate of Christmas goodies, and watch out. 

I suppose I've always known this about myself, but it became obvious last weekend at my family's holiday gathering.

With Diane driving, I was en route to Denise's home, where the festivities were to take place. I was cloistered in the back seat of her car with the twin tea rings she had baked the night before. I admit to getting high on the aroma of yeast and sugar. It was all I could do not to rip off the plastic covering and stick my face in it. Still, I prevailed, and both tea rings made it to their destination intact (although they didn't stay that way for long).

Later, after Denise pulled thumbprint cookies out of the oven and placed the plate within reaching distance, I was compelled to gobble some of those, too. 

In between the two incidents, there was other food, which I sort of remember. Pulled pork, mac 'n cheese, etc. But it's the classic desserts that reel me in every time.

Some of it is surely nostalgia. Tea rings and cookies were mandatory Christmas treats in our house, and when I see them again, they bring back mom...and boxes of cookies of various kinds, the Hershey's miniature countdown wreath, live Christmas tree and fake fireplace.

This time of year is when I feel most acutely the absence of my parents. When I gobble the goodies, I suppose it's my way of remembering and celebrating holidays past.

So, thanks, Denise for hosting. And Diane & John for putting me up. (And putting up with me.)

And may you all find a measure of happiness in the weeks to come. Let's hope next year brings the good kind of surprises.

Speaking of surprises, my brother boasted that he has some tea ring in his freezer. Maybe I'll show up on his doorstep one of these mornings to see if there's any left. 

I'm sure he won't mind...