400 Marshmallow Peeps

I have a thing about Peeps marshmallow candies. I like them them. A lot. I like their soothing uniformity. I like their weird waxy, mole-like eyes. I like their cheerful, sometimes lurid colors. I like their pop art appeal. I like that they are something only Americans would invent, much less eat.

And yes, I like eating Peeps. People often ask me, "Do you really eat them? Seriously?" Yes, my friends, and with relish. Once when I was really hungry my sister Ashley had to pry a 12-pack from my hands before I could snarf them all down in one sitting. They're light as air, crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Their only flavor is pure, unadulterated sugar. What's not to like?

I have made friends over Peeps. Peeps lovers tend to bond. Check out my photographer friend Corey Lesh's awesome "Peep Show" photos here. I like the "Peeps in a hot tub" and jello mold Peeps best. Corey was the photographer for a website I used to work for, and his Peeps photos were the first thing that greeted me when I walked through his studio door. We were fast friends.

I wouldn't say I've made enemies over Peeps, but I have definitely been dis-esteemed by the occasional Peeps-hater who perhaps lost too much enamel, or wasn't loved by his mother. People have strong feelings about Peeps.

Inspired by New York chocolatier Jacques Torres, Jamie, Olivia and I tried making our own chocolate-covered Peeps last Easter. SO GOOD. So, at the risk of being tacky, I called the Just Born people, and after some cajoling and pulling of strings, talked them into sending me two crates of marshmallow Peeps for my wedding. I cannot tell you how giddy I was for a full week, knowing that 400 marshmallow Peeps were on their way to my house.

Most brides won't admit it, but you can tell by their glazed-over expression that wedding planning is not that fun. I know it can sound like sacrilege--but as intimate, soulful and joy-filled as a marriage ceremony or marriage for that matter may be, wedding planning is stressful. And when you've spent all day deciding between dots and plaid; apricot chicken or teriyaki beef; and I mean you've really, really soul-searched over it, wedding planning can even feel vapid.

After poring over buttercup vs. daffodil yellow and the merits of a band over a D.J., 400 marshmallow Peeps make a lot of sense. It's the little, silly things that keep it fun for me, and keep me from going a little (more) insane.