Are you full yet?

I'm getting there. Having all that food over the holidays makes me reflect on some of the dishes that I've liked over the years and some that I still refuse to digest.

I'm sure you have the same preferences and dislikes. Some people don't like milk. Others can't stand peanut butter.

There might be some on this list that you can agree with and understand. Of course, we all have the option of changing our tastes over the years. That's why I'll divide the following in to categories.

Didn't like and never have

Liver: It's definitely Public Enemy No. 1. Many folks I know are partial to liver and onions. No thanks.

We had to eat liver for a few years growing up. I was told it's rich in iron and healthy for tots to eat.

Quoth the raven: Nevermore.

Cauliflower: There really isn't much of a taste to this. I think it's the texture that I don't care for.

Broccoli/brussel sprouts: Ditto. The folks put cheese on it, which made it taste a little better. Not enough, although I'm learning to like broccoli soup.

Didn't like but do now

Horseradish: A great topper for steaks or any kind of meat. Not for the faint of heart.

Guacamole: Another nice addition, especially with Mexican fare. I guess I didn't care for it earlier on, because of the texture. Something green, bumpy and slimy doesn't seem to be a right fit to eat, at least to an 11 year old.

Coffee: Discovered in the later high school years, this item would be a much needed tool to help get through those late-night studying sessions. Which, of course, were few and far between.

Gyros: Lamb meat, pita bread, cucumber sauce and onions. Just make sure you're not going out on a date anytime soon.

Like then and still like now

Barbeque chicken: Mmmm, mmmm. Pretty self-explanatory.

Steak: Another great American tradition. I had one a few months ago when in France. Maybe because it wasn't Grade 'A' American Prime, but it just wasn't the same.

Pizza: You can't go wrong. Some people are big fans of cold pizza. I won't go there, but it's still a tough food to give up. I thought putting pineapple on pizza was a bad choice, until I tried it. It doesn't seem traditional, but it's not a bad tasting option. I'll stick to sausage and mushrooms.

New discoveries

Scalloped corn: Never had it until my arrival in Minnesota. Tastes great … and it's filling.

Lefse: Same as above. Brown sugar, butter and a soft shell largely made out of potatoes. Good stuff … just make sure you tamp down those air pockets.

Tom and Jerry's: I think this concoction was around long before the cartoon.

And there might be some more I can add throughout the coming year.

Just make sure you save me some antacid.

Dan Fields can be reached at 434-2230 or by e-mail at :mailto:dan.fields@austindailyherald.com