Once upon a time, I used go to my best friend's country house and spend long, winter weekends with her and her family and their dogs, horses, and cats.  She had her driver's license and that was a really big deal.  Going to Walmart alone?  Even bigger.  We watched a lot of movies.  We did each other's hair.  Her mom was an amazing cook.  She and I made french fries together. 

All of these memories, and so many more, erupt in my mind in true tsunami-style every time I smell almond extract.