I love chocolate, probably a bit too much. I'm pretty sure I have my mother to thank for this. Around every holiday, my mom would put out a bowl or two of chocolate in the dining room. And from the time I was a little girl, I'd sneak in a couple times a day and snag a piece. I'm sure my mother intended the chocolate for our frequent guests. My parents, after all, have always done an awful lot of entertaining. My father's work in the ministry has undoubtedly facilitated their need and desire to host countless meals each year. But I think they would have hosted regardless. Our Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter tables were always full of parishioners, out-of-town friends, and last-minute guests. As were our 4th of July picnics and Memorial Day barbecues. And, most of the time, I loved it. I guess that's part of the reason I fill up a bowl of chocolate around every holiday. Sure, I can devour a package of Hugs with the best of them and I do love chocolate. But more than the chocolate, the little bowl reminds me of my parents and their incredible gift of hospitality.
