Location: with my cousin at his house near Santa Cruz, CA [a detour made during a weeklong business trip]

As we are about to leave, and I notice there's a fig tree in the yard next door. (My cousin had told us that it just sold the day before, and that he knows both the seller and buyer.) Therefore, I ask:

"I notice that there is a fig tree in the yard, do you think that they would mind if I collected a cutting? It's the right time of year to do it." 

Looking slightly puzzled yet nonetheless pleased (because at some point in his life, he probably has seen his mom the master gardener ask a similar favor), he responds, "I'm certain that neither the seller nor buyer would mind. Let me go get some pruning shears"

I proceed to cut off a branch that's growing inward towards the trunk at an awkward angle, such that it would be pruned anyway.

Is there a twelve step program, or am I addicted for life?  ;-)

lol. if there is, it is not here and none of us will know where to find it! ;-)

On one of our last trips to Nice, FR and Munchen, DE I was about to drive my wife nuts in FR, driving through the French countryside, "there's a fig", two minutes later, "there's another fig!", 20 seconds later, "And another... !"

This went on for days.

I'm amazed we're still married.

There is a 12-step program. It is called "Rooting a cutting", Step 1: Locate a tree. Step 2: Take cuttings. Step 3: Prepare cuttings for transport. Step 4: Transport cuttings. Step 5: Buy Perlite and bags. Step 6: Begin the rooting process. Step 7...  Step 11: Water and fertilize for a couple years as plant grows. Step 12: Enjoy eating figs.

@PaulandIrene,

told you. lol

Paulandirene, like someone here said before, besides our spouses, none of us are looking for a cure! Continue to have fun.

You will find no direction toward therapy here my friend. Only suggestions on ways to live at peace with your addiction "grasshopper".

You may now attempt to snatch the fig from your fellow addicts hand. But beware, you must be prepared to suffer the consequences......... ;)

I suggest quitting cold turkey.  Fortunately, I am heading to Albuquerque tomorrow to visit my mom.  I'm willing to help while I am there :P

~james

1 Left work at lunchtime to get my car emissions tested

Love this threat ye'all, I actually tried Jon's 12 steps last year and the desire for the figs actually has gotten worse, especially when you see those twigs emit those new baby leaves, I am going to enjoy the ride, Sergio in NJ.