The Red Menance
6 February, 2008One of the questions we are always asking ourselves here at Mercy Street is, “Why do the kids come to see us?” Is it just the fantastic snacks we provide? The dish of candy on our desk. The fact that Tim always feeds the kids even when we say, “Don’t feed the kids.” Or do they come because they just feel safe and know the love of God when they come through those double glass doors. I’m hoping it’s the latter but whatever gets them in the door!
Yesterday at Wyld Life, we announced that we had Hot Cheetos. When we opened the box and realized that it was just a box holding an assorted variety of chips we almost had a riot on our hands and then when we ran out I almost had to get out my baton and rubber bullets. Although I think the fact that they weren’t getting Hot Cheetos calmed most of them down as they realized they weren’t missing out on much.
Just in case you’ve been living under a rock for the last several years, there is a Hot Cheeto phenomenon sweeping the nation.
Many school districts have banned this crazy snack because of the red dye. White uniform shirts + Red Hot Cheetos = disaster. They did a study that shows when a person consumes spicy food your brain releases endorphins and you actually experience a little high. So as many kids have stated when they eat Flaming Hot Cheetos, they feel crazy…they actually do feel crazy…scientifically proven craziness.
NPR did a story on this phenomenon a couple of years ago, you can listen to it here if you’d like. My favorite part of the story, is when the reporter asks, “What will happen if I eat this whole bag of Hot Cheetos?” A crazy group of 5th grade kids reply, “It’ll make your booty burn.”
Personally I love Flaming Hot Cheetos. And if I’m given the chance they are yummy with hot nacho cheese on top.
ha..well yes, you are right that a long commute would kill me and therefore I don’t want your life.
Also i have my own tantrums, so no need to add more. No, you have a great life, but you know what I mean and I know you want that too. 
I love Cheetos. I have to designate two fingers to eat them so they will be the only one’s stained. I prefer the regular one’s though. I can promptly down a bag in very little time. But then spend an hour getting the orange out of my teeth and washing my hands 26 times to remove the stains. It’s so worth it though.
Next week would be great..just shoot me an e-mail when you are available.
Have fun in the NE this weekend!
Good Grief. I had not a clue such a thing was sweeping the nation. Thank for you enlightening me.
Sweeping, Jana. Sweeping. Hannah, thank you for sharing what we both know to be the greatest snack food of all time! Now, I know why I love them so much. The downside is the cheet you get on your fingers. Nasty.