The madness needs to stop!
No really.
Please, stop the hate!


I’ve never seen our country so polarized.
Sides have been chosen.
There are no blurry lines.
You are either for or against it.
It has spurred outrage on social media.
Morning shows have both touted and ridiculed this issue repeatedly.


It’s not about the election.
It’s not about Kaepernick’s patriotism.
It’s not about who should win the World Series.


I’m speaking, of course, about the great pumpkin spice debate.


Not to the surprise of any that know me; it’s clear where I fall on this issue.


I am a pumpkin spice addict... Advocate... Cheerleader!


I truly love the smell, the scent, the look of anything pumpkin spice. I’ve been known to try everything from Pumpkin Spice Lattes, to pumpkin spice Oreos, candy corn, cookies, creamer, taffy, donuts, beer, NutriGrain bars, truffles, marshmallows, cereal, pancakes, cream cheese, bread and Blizzard’s from Dairy Queen.


I start lighting my pumpkin spice candles as early as August, and have pumpkin spice air freshener all over my house. And, I just recently had my hair colored, pumpkin spice. Yes, it’s a thing.


Ok. Addict is probably the closest.


I can’t help it. As I deeply inhale and let the scent surround me, or let a small bite tickle my taste buds, I just smile. It is a simple, harmless pleasure that brings me joy.


Which is why the negative, critical reaction for many at the mere mention of pumpkin spice is perplexing to me.


I do know it may be hard for some to get into a ‘pumpkin spice frame of mind’, when it is August and still 94 degrees outside.


I do know there has been an apparent takeover of grocery aisles, retail merchandise and menu selections that might lead one to not only shake their head in dismay, but disgust.


I do know everyone has different tastes, and a pumpkin spice palate is simply not in the cards for all.


I do know the pumpkin spice craze has gone a bit out of control in the market space, and could be perceived as a monopoly trying to take over all other spices. I mean, what’s wrong with sage, or thyme?


And I do know there are certain products that should never, ever, ever be associated with pumpkin spice i.e. toothpaste, toilet paper, Doritos or deodorant. I’ll just stop there.


But I also know there is a finite amount of time, usually 4-5 months out of the year, that pumpkin spice enthusiasts can enjoy this indulgence before it goes away again.


No different really, than an average football season.


I could certainly get on a soap box about football fanatics and the craziness that has become game day, pre-game day, post-game day, and every day in-between! The commercials, the apparel, the ticket sales, the hype, the rivalries the monopoly over all other sports, (for at least 4-5 months out of the year).


But I love football too, and I see the immense joy the sport gives to so many.


So during a time when there are real, serious issues facing our personal lives, our country and the world, let this issue go. Please.


Because friends, it’s just not that serious. :)