Ok, so growing up, we all learn important lessons and bits of wisdom that keep us going as alive and functioning human beings. We learn tantamount rules of survival such as looking both ways before crossing the street and not eating poinsonous substances. However, now that most of us are in our twenties, these things are second nature to us. But have you ever (and maybe this is just me) come across something maybe not as huge as not looking before crossing the street, but just something that would have been really nice to know that you somehow missed? Well, I did tonight, and unfortunately, I am still suffering from the experience.

Earlier this evening, I made a huge T-Bone steak with a killer rub, and I was quite pleased with how it turned out. But of course, nothing is EVER simple and normal in Megan-land. Along with cooking the steak, I was also chopping up some bell peppers, along with a couple jalapeno chili peppers for kicks. Those turned out fine as well, but LITTLE DID I KNOW that a "substance found in the skin of a chili pepper could cause irritation or burning on the skin". Let me just say that irritation is the biggest, fattest understatement of the century. Right now, my hands literally feel like they are on fire. I am not exaggerating. As I've been typing all this, I've had to get up three different times to run my hands under cold water, and about 20 seconds later, the burning is back. And I don't mean to whine, but it huuuuurts I am currently storing two wet washcloths in the freezer to wrap around my hands when I go to bed in a bit, or I'm telling you right now...I ain't sleepin'. I've also loaded up on Advil, and I guess time will have to heal the rest. But before I go, a strong word of advice: (although, like I was saying earlier, this could easily be one of those obvious "never do this" rules that I somehow missed) When working with hot peppers, use gloves, unless you want World War III on your hands. Thank you and goodnight.