smokin' hot

on the lower east side, in what is now ground central for hipsters (hotel on rivington, 'inoteca, et al) sits economy candy ... actually a misnomer, as there are very little savings going on there. although technically, it is partly responsible for keeping the economy going!

now this is no dylan's wannabee. it's the real thing ... bulk candy, chocolate, and nuts in the type of setting that my recall going to the sundries store with your father forty years ago. fluorescent lights. one lone register. long rope-like twizzlers. chocolate covered marshmallows on a stick in the shape of brooms. sweet tarts. nothing really overly vintage or too sentimental, just your extensive variety of goodies meant to warm the heart, and burnish memories.

my kids love going there, wandering the cramped aisles and picking out their favorite confections. mysteriously, we have all grown partial to styrofoam-like flying saucers filled with tiny beads of sprinkles, as well as cigarette-style bubble gum ... when you blow out on the filter end, a puff of powdered sugar wisps out like real smoke. jane is totally opposed to this treat on moral grounds as a physician, insisting it lends a cool factor to smoking (i disagree, it's just fun, and i always win this one!). sundays in the city with your dad ...

is there anything better than being a kid in a candy shop?