Where dish-aholics can give into temptation

My name is Eileen and I am a dish-aholic.

Please don't think of me as weak. It's a disease, honest it is.

And no matter how many dishes, glasses and serving pieces I buy, it simply isn't my fault.

I understand the craving has a genetic link. My mother, also a dish-aholic, has cupboards crammed with Wedgwood, Blue Onion and odd bits of crystal, the sparkling reminders of her own mother's addiction.

The habit can cost a gal dearly. I've cruised eBay for Waterford in the Eileen pattern, a design that is all the more costly because it has been discontinued. The buffet in my house is groaning with delectable dessert plates by Christian Dior, Fitz & Floyd, Lenox, Limoge and Spode.

But there's always room for another place at the table. That is why I perused with delight a circular touting Boscov's semi-annual tabletop event, which runs through Oct. 2.

In addition to 40 percent off the entire stock of Lenox (and a free rimmed soup bowl with the purchase of any five-piece setting), Boscov's is serving up such bargains as 50 percent off the entire Pfaltzgraff stock and a Noritake service for eight in the choice of Crestwood Platinum, Chandon or Chandon Platinum patterns for $299.99. That's nearly a gazillion bucks off the ticket price of $996.50.

But the biggest bang for the buck is the doorbuster on Churchill fine ironstone, pictured here, where a mere $79.97 buys a 45-piece service for eight, plus a vegetable bowl, platter, covered sugar bowl and creamer. Sets are also available in the multi-colored Jacobean floral pattern and Chelsea white. How can you resist?