Turning Kids into Chocolatiers

My daughter, Simone, has never met a chocolate that she didn't like. So I surprised her one day after school with a visit to the most amazing candy shop she'd ever seen.

After a quick tasting, tour of the menu and lesson in chocolate making, we set off into candy land. In less than an hour, she squeezed, tapped and sprinkled her way into chocolaty bliss in under an hour. She made about 25 chocolates, not including the ones she ate while we were there.

The team was very patient and child-friendly. We were offered beverages for purchase (we chose the house-made hot chocolate, of course.) Adult beverages were also available. And had I noticed beforehand, I would've certainly imbibed. Maybe next time!

I loved it. Can we live here?

I loved it. Can we live here?

She said it was the coolest thing EVER.

She said it was the coolest thing EVER.

 

Coming to Terms with a Wheat Allergy

I've been in denial about my wheat allergy for over two years. But when I turned 40, I realized I had to woman-up and accept a few things about myself. Including the fact that I loved pastries, pasta and pizza way more than they loved me.

I reluctantly introduced gluten-free foods into my diet in late 2015. But I love sweets. So this class menu read like a dream: Blueberry Muffins, Brownies, Peanut Butter Cookies, and Coconut Banana Bread. Since it's nearly impossible to fully replicate the properties of gluten, I was skeptical. But the results came really close in texture to their wheat-based alter egos, which is my biggest issue with gluten-free foods.

Two hours later, I left with new recipes in hand and hope in my heart. Gluten-free croissants may not be in my future, but quick breads, muffins, brownies, and cookies are back - with a vengeance.

PERKS: In addition to a bag full of baked goods, class attendees receive 10% off for same-day purchases.

I learned a lot, but I need a personal chef.

I learned a lot, but I need a personal chef.