My brain is tired so this comment isn't too valuable. But had a craving for soda right before reading this. It was a 'to read' post open in one of my many procrastination tabs - the title got my attention - but didn't know what it was about.

Poured myself a 1/2 a glass of (flat) Pepsi - (like you, dropped soda quite a few years ago - but pregnancy makes me want the darndest things). Then sat down to read.

The soda is gross and disappointing, though I still drank it. It still holds that 'power' - to not just push it away. Though I've dabbled in far stronger, less legal substances - probably to the point of addiction, ok definitely past the point - I can see how caffeine/soda could be an easy one to fall into.

Those legal ones are tricky because they become rituals. My stomach is actually sour now, and acid reflux on the rise. Verdict? Totally not worth it.