Hoarding

Did you know there's a disorder called Compulsive Hoarding?  While I don't think I could technically be labeled, I've noticed lately I've got some issues.  But, in my defense, it's not entirely my fault.

You see, I live in Italy.  I'm an American in a foreign land and Italians ONLY eat Italian food.  So I rely on my Navy Commissary to supply me with all those things I want that I can't get "out in town".  Ketchup is one of these things.  Europeans typically don't do ketchup.
Are you ready for this?  They eat mayonnaise on their french fries!!!!!!  I know, I know, YUCK!  But hey, different strokes for different folks. 

That's not to say you can't get ketchup here, you can - it's just not the same.  It's like saying all ketchup is the same, let me tell you folks, it. is. not.  There is a huge difference between Hunt's and Heinz (despite what my husband says) and I don't even consider that Del Monte stuff ketchup - it's not worthy of the label.   Not that I'm biased, but Heinz rules!  And now that you know I'm 100% brand loyal, let me share this - I only buy the organic ketchup because I avoid high-fructose corn syrup like the plague.

Three weeks ago, they ran out of the Heinz organic ketchup and my home supply was running low.  You see, I typically buy two at a time because the Commissary isn't exactly reliable with their ordering and stocking process.  So, they ran out, we ran out.  There was a small rebellion here at home - anarchy if you must know.  My children were beyond upset.

Last week, I rounded the aisle where they display the ketchup and silently said a prayer that there would be organic ketchup in stock - HALLELUJAH!!!  my prayer was answered - but, there were only 7 bottles.

What to do?  Be greedy and take them all?  No.  My friend Jennifer also uses this ketchup and was out (she's weak, she actually caved and bought the regular stuff)  so I decided to get 3 bottles for me and 2 for her leaving two on the shelf for some other unfortunate mother who desperately needed this item.  And when Jennifer went back yesterday they were out again - slight edgy feeling bordering on panic (yes, I still have two in reserve).  But, HALLELUJAH!!!!!! today they were restocked when I went so I picked up two more. 

That's right, I now have one open bottle and 4 in reserve - all is well with the world.
 
I also have 3 bags of coffee, 4 jars of apple sauce, 2 bottles of maple syrup, 2 jars of peanut butter and 2 boxes each of the cereal we eat - all in reserve because these favorite items also tend to be out of stock a lot.
 
OK, I may have a problem.

Military moms around the world who depend on their commissary understand this, the rest of you will just have to trust I'm mentally sound and not a compulsive hoarder.  Right?

Here are Saturday's three things I'm thankful for
1.  I am thankful for organic ketchup in stock!
2.  I am thankful for my husband who suggests I should get away and take some alone time while he stays home with the kids. 
3.  I am thankful for all the reasons I've had to smile throughout my life.

Have a great weekend,
Sabrina