When I was a kid, one of the most intense memories I had was of how my maternal grandfather smelled. Not just after work, but after a shower, or any other activity. I always thought it was because he was a heavy smoker. As I turned 50 (or so), I was surprised and appalled to find that I now smelled that exact same smell again — this time from me. Again, it would smell weaker right after a shower, or I could cover it with aftershave or cologne, but it was always there as a baseline.

And I’ve never been a smoker — I tried smoking a pipe in college, but could never keep the damn thing lit. And cigarettes just made me gag and tasted horrible. Of course, I knew plenty of smokers and my mom was a heavy smoker for many years, so I knew what the smell was like. That didn’t bother me so much, but the act of trying to smoke did.

So far as I can tell, I just now smell like my grandpa used to when I was a kid.

Anyway, I’m not sure what to make of this situation. It still bugs me, from time to time.