gracious chocolate

As a once (and hopefully future) resident of Hawaii, I have a special affinity for the pineapple. Colonial dame decor aside, I know how beautifully it symbolizes hospitality. It was a staple of my everyday. Not the sticky sweet rings my grandmother tacked onto her Christmas ham, but the chunky, fresh and slightly tart bites I cut up for my children each morning, the outlandish cocktails I served my mainlander visitors, the unexpected ingredient for a warm dish, a favorite hostess gift.

The pineapple at my grocer in Maryland is not quite as inspiring (but the crabs are!), so Gracious Chocolate provides that warm and welcoming touch of comfort.