a quest

I have lately become obsessed with TimTams.

A TimTam, for those who don't know, is magic in cookie form. Layers of cookie and frosting and chocolate, the size of a credit card, eaten plain or used as a milk straw. Australia carries them in eight flavors. Missionaries slam them dozens at a time. They are Simply Wonderful.

I was beyond chagrined when my grocery store abruptly stopped carrying them, especially when the discovery of said cessation took place at 5:00 AM after an all-night not-quite fifteen-page paper on Korean economic development. Apparently they are "kind of seasonal." Minor meltdown occurred.

During finals week, I tried another store. I got smart this time and called ahead.
Employee: "You've reached ___'s, how may I help you?"
Me: "Yes, do you have TimTams? You know, the cookie?"
Her: "Let me check."
*PAUSE*
She Returns (a little too quickly): "Why yes! Aisle 17."

Five minutes later, I am so there. Aisle 17 proves to be baking goods--not a cookie in sight. I reach the end of the aisle and double back to no avail. There is, however, a gleaming display of tin pans. You know, for cooking?

I was not a happy camper. But in face of such trials, what do you think I did? I drove 138 miles to the nearest Pepperidge Farm factory and stocked up. Totally worth it.