It’s only the first Monday in October and I don’t know about you, but I’m already over the pumpkin craze. You’d think I’d just be getting into it, since Halloween’s right around the corner and fall’s finally in full swing, but I’m a purist. I believe pumpkin belongs in a pie. I also blame “seasonal creep,” a handy term used to describe the annoying way seasonal treats are starting to show up way too early.
For example, friends were bragging about their first Pumpkin Spice Lattes way back in August, while I was still trying to enjoy my summer-appropriate iced coffee. Thanks to seasonal creep, by the time it’s actually pumpkin season I’m already sick of hearing about orange squash. Because that’s what a pumpkin is-a regular old squash. But I guess “Squash Spice Latte” doesn’t have the same ring to it, does it?
While it seems the #PSL (yes, Pumpkin Spice Latte has it’s own hashtag) doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, there are a few other pumpkin flavored things that are frankly taking the trend too far, like Pumpkin Spice Burgers. Starting in late August, you can also get your hands on the following items-if you dare:
• Pumpkin-flavored Beer (It’s almost as celebrated as those lattes.)
• Pringles Pumpkin Pie Spice Potato Chips (No. Just no.)
• Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts (These actually sound better than most pumpkin-infused products.)
• Pumpkin Pie Vodka (Pair it with the Pop Tarts and you’ve got a Breakfast of Champions!)
I’m not saying we need to outlaw pumpkin entirely. I’m just saying we should enjoy it during a limited time, so we don’t get sick of it. October 15th through Thanksgiving seems about right to me. Six glorious weeks of pumpkin goodies and a few slices of delicious pumpkin pie (how pumpkin was meant to be eaten!). Then, we can move on to Peppermint Lattes and Pine-flavored Pop Tarts. Who’s with me?
In the meantime, I have a full-proof plan for getting rid of any pumpkin-related aggression you may have-carving a jack-o-lantern! I once won second prize in a pumpkin carving contest, and I’m already planning this year’s Halloween masterpiece. In fact, even the Pumpkin Spice Burger might serve as inspiration:
Happy Monday,
Mary
