Life Stinks

Last week we bought a new sectional.  We were thrilled to find what we were looking for in our price range in town.  Thrilled…until we unpacked it and the off-gassing began.

This wouldn’t be such a problem if we could have our windows open 24/7, but we all know what kind of spring we’ve been having this year.  So I cracked the windows as much as I dared to offer some fresh air to counter the smell of chemicals.

When I asked the clerk how long it took their merchandise to stop off-gassing, he looked bewildered and suggested I spray it with a “freshening” product.  Sure, just what I need – to add more chemicals to the mix.

I once thought my acute sense of smell was a blessing to help offset my hearing loss.  Now, I’m not so sure.  I can’t stand the smell of so many things!

Like smoke.  No more campfires for me.  And here I was waiting for my baby to get a little older so we could really start camping.  It’s disappointing.

On the other hand, I’m surprised at how many people can’t smell things I can smell strongly.  We live in a world where tons of products which are not healthy to breathe are used regularly:  cleaning chemicals, fuel, pesticides, cigarettes, air fresheners, candles…

Even if you can’t smell it, you might want to think twice before you light up or spray.  Harmful chemicals and carcinogenic pollutants – many, ironically, in the name of beauty, cleanliness, or “health” – permeate our air unchecked.  And it stinks.