cheesy kismet and the corn subsidy diaspora

unsnackable vol. 52

A few times each year, I find myself falling into a familiar rhythm. I quietly sample the seasonal holiday treat assortment that will pop up on the store shelves. I'll carry out this reconnaissance mission over weeks to confirm my favorites, old and new. It's a task that culminates with the satisfaction of a small haul of deeply discounted candy that often tastes better because of the work I've done to earn it. The flavor of success, available for a few days a year.  I had already started to revel in my success a few weeks ago. It was the day after Halloween, and I walked into CVS, spurred by a baseline of euphoria fueled by a night of sake. I wandered into the seasonal aisle only to be greeted by the trick of CHRISTMAS candy and boxes of twinkle lights moments from being shortcircuited by