New Beginnings

It has been  over a year and, one day, I might write about the time spent away, but for now I am happy to share the beginnings of a new project being undertaken by an inspirational friend of mine.
The space in which this story starts has held many stories before this one,

but before very long, here, as you step through the door, your senses will  be greeted by the familiar, intoxicating (and yet, surprisingly, still little known) world of all that is cocoa and chocolate.

It seems fitting that these walls will hold history, process and the magic of artisans learned over centuries, whilst providing a special space for everyone to relax  learn, unwind, share and enjoy.

I have been very fortunate to be present at the beginning of several of my friend's projects and so look forward to seeing where this one will transport us all.

Cocoa, Shells, Beans and Basket

Acrylic on canvas 30" x 36"

Today marks the start of Grenada Chocolate Fest. and the opening of the
"In Celebration of Chocolate" exhibition at the Art and Soul Gallery.

Home Grown

We are picking the cocoa from
the few remaining trees in
Corn Buck,






fermenting the beans in a bucket,
which seems to work fine,








and then drying them in the sun.
Xena has kindly allowed us to use
her house as the drying shed.
T has shown me how to 'parch'
or roast them, over the fire and then
we will grind them and make cocoa balls
for cocoa tea.





...but secretly, I would really like to do this......