I actually thought that I had this under control. I had gone through the ringer and the withdrawal and now, eighteen months had passed. I was cured- right? My love affair had ended. I declared it with pride,

"I am no longer addicted to Sugar!"

That sugary devil had done a number on me for years. Protein was faithful and had been a wonderful friend but I threw him over for Sugar. My sweetie, I thought, was perfect. I was horribly mistaken; Sugar was mean. Sugar hurt me, messed with my mind, wore down my body, constantly gave me colds and the flu, and made me sad. I couldn't remember the last time that I felt good with my sweet crush. My eyes were yellowing and dark circles sat under them like little boats bobbing on an unstable sea.

Now, though, I was free! Yeah! I could stand and speak with integrity, without having to give a disclaimer that went something like, "I'm still working on myself, so I can understand your faux pas." No, this was much better. My stomach was flat, my skin was clearing and, thankfully, so was my mind. Life was grand.

Then, I met Carbs.

Carbs was waiting for me when I went on vacation. Carbs, don't you know, is sugar's fraternal twin. They usually run together but sometimes, each takes a turn hiding behind the other, so, most people don't realize that there are two of them. I'm still trying to figure out which one treated me worse. (to be continued)