in order to discuss a very important topic:
Dan and I come from different genetic backgrounds, but one thing we have in common is a strong gastro-intestinal reaction to garlic. It turns, in our systems, to gas and then with fanfare and trumpets exits our systems by all available routes. Nothing quiet or discrete about it. Dan and I both also have in common that we love the stuff. Which is a good thing here in Greece since, by and large, garlic is a fundamental ingredient of Greek food. And it is great.
So today at lunch we peruse the menu and find a dish of eggplant stuffed with tomatoes, onions, and cheese. We ask our host Raymond about it, and he says he recommends it highly. But then he asks that all-important question: "Do you have a problem with garlic?"
Dan and I look at each other and answer in one voice. "No. Not at all."
"Simethecone," we tell each other after Raymond has left our table. "Ranitidine. Cimetidine." We have no problem with garlic. We are living on stomach pills. And we are very happy.