As humans, sometimes we forget about things we really like.

There is that band you haven’t heard in a while that causes you to reach over and turn up the volume. A movie you haven’t seen in a few years comes on TV, and you throw out your afternoon plans to take it in.

And then there are those dishes you have neglected for far too long.

I recently rediscovered grilled cheese sandwiches, which given their ease of construction and low cost may be one of the greatest food items ever created. I mean, bread is good, butter is even better and cheese is amazing. How could the combination of all three not be incredible?

Look at this picture and tell me you don’t want one:

That’s what I thought. If you need to take a few minutes to indulge, feel free. I’ll still be here when you get back.

The rediscovery was sort of a chance happening. Before leaving a job last spring, I had to train my replacement. She brought her lunch the first few days, and because she was so new I didn’t want to leave her in the office alone for too long when I went to acquire food.

Fortunately, there was a small deli in the same office park. I had only eaten there once before because I thought it was massively overpriced for what it was, and there was a Taco Bell and a Wendy’s just down the street. But in the name of quickness I decided to give them another shot, and that’s when the grilled cheese caught me eye.

It only took one bite to bring back a flood of melty, gooey memories. In the final week of that job I think I had four grilled cheese sandwiches for lunch.

I posted on Facebook that the rediscovery was the highlight of 2010 for me, and got a surprising number of people extolling their deliciousness. The comments included one from my dad’s cousin, who like me and my brother (and I believe the rest of my family) enjoy pairing the grilled cheese with some ketchup. It adds the right sweetness and a bit of coolness to go with the hot sandwich.

College roommate Shawn L. (lover of dealies, foe of spiders) did not seem so enthusiastic about the combo. But then again he also likes Ohio State football, so clearly his tastes can’t be taken seriously.

This morning I saw this story about Fairfax County Public School eliminating chocolate milk in cafeterias. It’s a good thing I am no longer a student in one of their schools, or there would be some sort of massive sit-in protest. I can’t recall EVER voluntarily drinking any milk at school that was not of the chocolate variety. I mean, why would you settle for anything less than the best?

That would be like having a grilled cheese without ketchup.