They say you can never go home, and it appears that for some things this is true.

I have been struggling with a stomach bug for the last couple of days, and now that I actually feel like eating the thing that caught my eye at the store was something from my childhood. 

Lipton soup mix. 

As I walked down the soup isle at the local grocer, I spied the red @LiptonRecipe soup mix box. It was almost hidden behind a display, but I found it. They only had the Extra Noodle version, but my childish memories were already triggered, and I had to have some. It’s amazing how some things evoke such strong sense of affection and comfort.

I couldn’t wait to be home and start the water boiling. Opening the packet, I was immediately disappointed. Something wasn’t right. The smell did not match my memory. It did not smell like chicken packet. It smelled like dusty noodles. Surely once I mixed the packet contents with the boiling water that would change. The familiar scent of faux chicken would greet my nostrils.

It was not to be. 

I mixed. 

I sniffed. 

Disappointment

I mixed some more. 

Nothing.

What had happened to this memory? Someone has stolen a part of my life. A chunk of comforting memories is gone. The soothing warmth that told me I was once more well enough to eat semi solid foods is gone. 

It is a sad day when you find that something that held such strong sensation is gone forever and all that remains is an imperfect copy claiming to be Soup Mix with Real Chicken Broth.

Sadly, I am left knowing I cannot recommend this product. A shame.

Now all that remains is what do I do with the three packets I have left?