Yesterday I was recovering from a mild cold (or at least a runny nose) so taking the brown line up to Lincoln Square to check out a cheese store probably wasn't the smartest plan to fill up my free day.

But while Googling "Chicago Cheese" (Yes, I know, I need to plan my days off better) I came across a link to The Cheese Stands Alone, a local cheese store run by a married couple, Matt and Sarah Parker (one can only silently wish to themselves that her middle name is Jessica).

Upon entering the shop my heart immediately lept from my chest as I saw cheese curds behind the glass case. "You have curds," I said to the owner in awe. "I can't get curds anywhere!" He shrugged nonchalantly. "I have a guy from Wisconsin that comes down every few weeks." I was in heaven, and needless to say I instantly got a bag of them.

I also asked for some Crottin Perigord, which I told him I was probably butchering the pronunciation of. "Croteen," he said, correcting me. "Just talk like you're pretending to be Pepé Le Pew and you'll sound fine."

Finally I got a wedge of garlic brie by Bavaria-based Käserei Champignon - good stuff. Anything that can make your breath smell for days can't not taste good. It's a fact.

All that and less than $20 out of my wallet. Oh The Cheese Stands Alone, you haven't seen the last of me.