Not that I needed one, but I developed yet another bad habit.  It started a few weeks ago.  It seemed an innocent diversion, at first.  I only did it once in awhile.  Before I knew it, I was going back to the fridge again, and again, for more.  Now, I can’t stop.

I chew ice. 

I have a system to it.  I use a clear cup so I can see the ice and keep track of how much I have.  I fill the cup up with ice, and then add a beverage.  Fruit juice, usually.  This flavors the ice and it’s like a giant snow cone when I chew on it.  Sometimes I go with plain water.

I like to let the ice sit a little while, so the edges aren’t as sharp.  Then when it’s small enough, I tilt the cup back and savour it. I don’t bite into it right away.  I roll it around, and test it between my teeth.  When it’s hit that critical stage where it’s melted enough to be soft, but not too melty, I bite down on it between my molars.

Crunch.

It feels good.  I have to do it again. 

Crunch.

Damn, is it just me, or is this fun?

Crunch, crunch, crunch…..

On the plus side, ice is a zero-calorie snack.  It’s also free, made fresh in the fridge.   I can chomp away guilt-free. 

On the negative….I’m getting compulsive about it.  Somewhere in the back of my mind, I realize it’s probably not normal to want the ice more than the beverage.  Also, this can’t be good for my teeth, which are already chock-full of old fillings just looking for reasons to have a mercury implosion. 

Crunch.