“Love is like swallowing hot chocolate before it has cooled off. It takes you by surprise at first, but keeps you warm for a long time.”
Yesterday I talked about cold weather and warm slippers, but cold weather also brings the opportunity to enjoy Hot Cocoa - yet another thing for which I am thankful.
Back when I was a wee young'n I used to spend the holidays working at our family store. While there was a stove heater there, it was still remarkably cold so a hot cup of cocoa would really hit the spot...
Back then it was just the powdered stuff that you added to hot water. Nothing special really but I do have fond memories of sitting next to that heater with cocoa in hand trying to stay warm.
Over the years my affinity for hot cocoa grew and I eventually grew adventurous and took the big step to start making it with milk. Sure it was just Nestle's Quick, nothing more than microwaved chocolate milk really, but it got me through those winter nights.
And then I met Gina, and just like everything else in my life got better, so did my hot cocoa.
She makes the real thing in a pan with cocoa powder and sugar and vanilla and whatever other secred ingredients she adds to produce the wonderful rich and creamy beverage she pours into the oversized mug - with a healthy dash of whipped cream on the top of course.
I dig in with a spoon - revelling in the joyous pleasure of the whipped cream just beginning to melt in the warm cocoa. Curled up on the couch I savor every drop, spoonful after spoonful until I can resist no longer and drink heartily - always sad to see the bottom of the empty mug.
It is life's little treasures like this that we must recognize and enjoy. While a cup of hot cocoa may not seem like much, it represents so much more to me than just a beverage. It is a reflection of Gina's love and the wonderful home that we share together.
Sure it tastes good but it also makes me feel good, bringing a warmth to both body and soul.
SB
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